Luke Karg is the only Missouri student to qualify for the high school national bass fishing championship five times, including as an incoming freshman

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rebecca-rivas/">REBECCA RIVAS</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/"></a>The water on Truman Lake was colder and muddier than normal this April, making for some tough fishing conditions.&nbsp;

Luke Karg, of House Springs, had one last shot before graduating to win the Missouri TBF High School Trail Super Tournament for bass fishing – which he and his then 16-year-old fishing partner, A.J. Massa, had won the year before.

It’s the last tournament of the season for the Missouri student program of The Bass Federation, and it’s also the final opportunity to earn enough points to be named Team of the Year — the top-scoring duo in the state.

“The tournament itself meant a lot to us, with it being our last state tournament together,” Karg said. “It was very tough. There was, at most, two inches of visibility in the water, but a lot of fishing is just adapting to the changes.”

Karg and Massa headed out on the water for two days for eight hours each. At the end of each day, they weighed their top five fish.&nbsp;

“The first day, they caught almost enough bass to win the tournament,” said Gary Foree, Karg’s mentor and family friend, who is a former professional fisherman. “They had almost 19 pounds, which is insane. There hasn’t been a tournament in three years over 17 pounds on Truman Lake.”

They brought in 16 pounds on the second day, which would have brought their total up to nearly 35 pounds. But unfortunately it didn’t count. Their boat malfunctioned, making them miss the weigh in.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“It was pretty heart-wrenching,” Karg said. “It was one of our best bags as a team on one of the most difficult days.”

Karg and Massa ended up taking second place at Truman Lake with one day’s worth of fish, and they still had enough points to be named Team of the Year, just as they were last year.

Karg has been part of the Team of the Year five years in a row, including as an incoming high-school freshman.&nbsp;

That title also sent the team to the TBF Student Angler Federation High School National Championship, which was held at Oklahoma’s Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees in June.&nbsp;

Only the top two high-school teams from each state can compete, and Karg is the only person in Missouri to have qualified for that opportunity five years in a row, according to officials for the national championship.

“To be one of the top two teams in Missouri for five consecutive years is pretty freaking amazing,” said Karl Buck, who previously led the federation’s high school program in Missouri and was also Karg’s team leader. “I’m just so proud it’s unbelievable. I mean, I can’t believe that I was involved in his upcoming as a fisherman.”

Karg began competitive fishing when he was 12 and participated in dozens of individual and team tournaments as a teen. Through it all, he struggled with an autoimmune illness that made him miss numerous days from school, he said, but he’s proud he still managed to graduate on time in May and continue fishing.

While it was grueling standing on a boat for hours under the hot sun, Karg said the national championship was exhilarating because some of the world’s top fishermen were watching.&nbsp;

“It’s the biggest tourn of the year, and a lot of people only get to go to it once, if even,” Karg said. “It really could be the biggest tournament of your life.”

Karg has loved to fish ever since he could hold a rod, said his father Rick Karg. Even as early as 5, he said Karg could catch fish when the adults around him were coming up empty.&nbsp;

“There’s a magic,” Rick said. “My scientific brain says, ‘Is there like a vibration from his heartbeat that travels down the line because he’s got his finger touching it, that the fish like?’”&nbsp;

Foree met Karg because of a life-changing promise he made to Karg’s mother, Becky Rumley.

Rumley was the nurse administering Foree’s chemotherapy treatment at St. Claire Hospital, and one day, she told him how much her nine-year-old son loved to fish. At the time, Foree thought he only had a few months to live.

“I ended up telling her that if I survive this, I’ll take him to Lake of the Ozarks and get him a five pounder because I used to be a [fishing] guide on the lake,” he said.

Foree did pull through, and when they went out fishing, Karg didn’t just catch one five-pound bass.&nbsp;

“I caught three five-pound bass and two six pounders, and like a bunch of big fish,” Karg said. “It is probably the best day of fishing in my life. And ever since then, he’s just dedicated a huge part of his life to help teach me and my partner.”

Foree was equally amazed after Karg pulled out nearly 40 pounds of fish that day.&nbsp;

“He just had the best day of fishing anybody could have,” Foree said. “That’s how I got him hooked on fishing.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Over the years, Foree taught him about tracking fish through the different seasons and how to read the water and the banks. He also helped him get his first boat.

Now, Foree said, Karg’s instincts are his fishing superpower.&nbsp;

“So many times they won a tournament when the fishing was really tough, and Luke said, ‘Let’s try over here. That bank looks good,’” Foree said. “And they’ll go over, and they’ll catch enough fish on that bank to win the tournament.”

Karg believes his instincts have developed with the dozens of tournaments and countless hours of fishing.&nbsp;

“Over time, it’s become more of an instinct, than having to think about, ‘Oh, I should make a change,’” he said. “It just naturally comes.”

For instance, at both the Truman Lake and national championship, Karg said he was painting his own custom lures while he was on the boat.

At Truman, he made the decision to color a half-inch chartreuse line on his spinner bait, he said, and he ended up catching much bigger fish, but less fish. If his lure had a straight tail, the catch was better as well, he said.

“It’s all about how the bait works in the water,” he said. “The smallest little detail that can just trigger the fish to eat. That’s where a lot of the fun comes into it for me, is all the difficulties and fun little changes you can make. You can go from catching no fish for hours on end to catching your limit in a minute.”

Karl Buck remembers meeting Karg when he was about 12 on a dock at the Peaceful Valley Lake in Owensville, where Karg’s grandparents have a lake house. Buck used to run a student program called the Owensville Anglers, and they were finishing up a tournament that day.

“When we were doing our weigh-in down at the dam, they came down to the boat ramp to inquire,” Buck said. “He’ll probably hate this, but he was the most bashful young man, super quiet and reserved.”&nbsp;

The Owensville Anglers is how Karg got his start with tournament fishing, which Buck says is much different than regular fishing.&nbsp;

In a tournament, Buck said the first rule is “find five.”&nbsp;

“You’re fishing for five fish,” Buck said. “Doesn’t matter what they weigh, they just got to be keepers,” meaning they are big enough to keep.

The fish go in the box where they’re kept alive and healthy, which is a standard conservation practice in the high-school tournaments.&nbsp;

“After you have five, then you’re going to change your game,” he said. “It’s now no longer about just catching fish. You’re looking to upgrade the fish that you already have. Big fish get big for a reason. They’re hard to catch.”

Big fish know how to hide, and that’s where casting skills come into play, Foree said. He called Karg’s casting skills “insane.”&nbsp;

“He can skip jigs and lures and put them in places nobody else can,” Foree said. “That’s why he’s so good.”

But he wasn’t always that good, Buck remembers, which is why Karg earned the nickname “Oops” after fishing with Buck and his son one day.

“Luke throws this cast — I believe it was a spinner bait — and it winds up on the roof of this dock, stuck,” Buck said. “So we go up and we get it. A little while later, he makes another cast and it gets stuck on somebody’s dock.”

After each time, Karg would just say, “Oops” and the nickname was born. Buck said when they fished together this past summer, he was blown away at his talent.&nbsp;

Karg and Massa ended up placing 56th out of more than 200 teams in the national championship in Oklahoma.&nbsp;

“We lost three three-pounders that came off the boat,” Karg said after the tournament finished. “That would have gotten us up to nine or 10 pounds. We would have been around 12th place probably.”

Karg said he’s proud of his accomplishment over this high school career, and he couldn’t have done it without his fishing partners Massa and previously Kyle Kannawurf, along with their boat captains.

“No one gives credit enough to our boat captains, which were both of our dads,” he said, “just giving the time to drive all the way out there and standing with us out the boat for eight hours straight a day.”

As boat captain, Rick said he was in “constant amazement” at his son’s skill.

“I’d just sit there and watch and think, ‘How in the world are you doing this?’” Rick said. “You’re like a super sharp shooter.”

Rick said he’s watched Karg fish for seven hours without catching anything, but he’d still have the focus and creativity change his strategy and get a big catch at the last minute. Karg’s humility and attitude are among the most impressive things about him, said Foree and Buck, particularly his ability to bounce back from setbacks.

“He never got rattled,” Foree said. “Oh, he’d get upset if he lost a big fish, but he’d just say, ‘Okay, I learned something from that,’ and go on to the next one. His ability to focus and stay focused in times of turmoil when he loses fish or the weather changes is very, very important in professional bass fishing.”

Karg&nbsp;has his own&nbsp;<a href="https://lukesboatservices.com/about-us" target="_blank">boat detail business</a>, and there are several career paths he’s interested in taking, including a professional fisherman.&nbsp;

“But for that, I would have to be away from home around 200 days of the year,” he said. “So the one I’m probably gonna go with is a natural environmentalist studying fresh water fish.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766854627766.png" alt=" Luke Karg and his mentor Gary Foree fish together at Peaceful Valley Lake in Owensville in 2021 (Photo submitted)." />
 <figcaption> Luke Karg and his mentor Gary Foree fish together at Peaceful Valley Lake in Owensville in 2021 (Photo submitted).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Luke Karg is the only Missouri student to qualify for the high school national bass fishing championship five times, including as an incoming freshman</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rebecca-rivas/">REBECCA RIVAS</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a><a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/"></a>The water on Truman Lake was colder and muddier than normal this April, making for some tough fishing conditions.&nbsp;Luke Karg, of House Springs, had one last shot before graduating to win the Missouri TBF High School Trail Super Tournament for bass fishing – which he and his then 16-year-old fishing partner, A.J. Massa, had won the year before.It’s the last tournament of the season for the Missouri student program of The Bass Federation, and it’s also the final opportunity to earn enough points to be named Team of the Year — the top-scoring duo in the state.“The tournament itself meant a lot to us, with it being our last state tournament together,” Karg said. “It was very tough. There was, at most, two inches of visibility in the water, but a lot of fishing is just adapting to the changes.”Karg and Massa headed out on the water for two days for eight hours each. At the end of each day, they weighed their top five fish.&nbsp;“The first day, they caught almost enough bass to win the tournament,” said Gary Foree, Karg’s mentor and family friend, who is a former professional fisherman. “They had almost 19 pounds, which is insane. There hasn’t been a tournament in three years over 17 pounds on Truman Lake.”They brought in 16 pounds on the second day, which would have brought their total up to nearly 35 pounds. But unfortunately it didn’t count. Their boat malfunctioned, making them miss the weigh in.&nbsp;&nbsp;“It was pretty heart-wrenching,” Karg said. “It was one of our best bags as a team on one of the most difficult days.”But it wasn’t all lost.&nbsp;Karg and Massa ended up taking second place at Truman Lake with one day’s worth of fish, and they still had enough points to be named Team of the Year, just as they were last year.Karg has been part of the Team of the Year five years in a row, including as an incoming high-school freshman.&nbsp;That title also sent the team to the TBF Student Angler Federation High School National Championship, which was held at Oklahoma’s Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees in June.&nbsp;Only the top two high-school teams from each state can compete, and Karg is the only person in Missouri to have qualified for that opportunity five years in a row, according to officials for the national championship.“To be one of the top two teams in Missouri for five consecutive years is pretty freaking amazing,” said Karl Buck, who previously led the federation’s high school program in Missouri and was also Karg’s team leader. “I’m just so proud it’s unbelievable. I mean, I can’t believe that I was involved in his upcoming as a fisherman.”Karg began competitive fishing when he was 12 and participated in dozens of individual and team tournaments as a teen. Through it all, he struggled with an autoimmune illness that made him miss numerous days from school, he said, but he’s proud he still managed to graduate on time in May and continue fishing.While it was grueling standing on a boat for hours under the hot sun, Karg said the national championship was exhilarating because some of the world’s top fishermen were watching.&nbsp;“It’s the biggest tourn of the year, and a lot of people only get to go to it once, if even,” Karg said. “It really could be the biggest tournament of your life.”<h2>A promise</h2>Karg has loved to fish ever since he could hold a rod, said his father Rick Karg. Even as early as 5, he said Karg could catch fish when the adults around him were coming up empty.&nbsp;“There’s a magic,” Rick said. “My scientific brain says, ‘Is there like a vibration from his heartbeat that travels down the line because he’s got his finger touching it, that the fish like?’”&nbsp;Foree met Karg because of a life-changing promise he made to Karg’s mother, Becky Rumley.Rumley was the nurse administering Foree’s chemotherapy treatment at St. Claire Hospital, and one day, she told him how much her nine-year-old son loved to fish. At the time, Foree thought he only had a few months to live.“I ended up telling her that if I survive this, I’ll take him to Lake of the Ozarks and get him a five pounder because I used to be a [fishing] guide on the lake,” he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766854595349.png" alt="Luke Karg stands with a paddlefish he caught in Owensville (Photo submitted)." />
 <figcaption>Luke Karg stands with a paddlefish he caught in Owensville (Photo submitted).</figcaption>
 </figure>Foree did pull through, and when they went out fishing, Karg didn’t just catch one five-pound bass.&nbsp;“I caught three five-pound bass and two six pounders, and like a bunch of big fish,” Karg said. “It is probably the best day of fishing in my life. And ever since then, he’s just dedicated a huge part of his life to help teach me and my partner.”Foree was equally amazed after Karg pulled out nearly 40 pounds of fish that day.&nbsp;“He just had the best day of fishing anybody could have,” Foree said. “That’s how I got him hooked on fishing.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Over the years, Foree taught him about tracking fish through the different seasons and how to read the water and the banks. He also helped him get his first boat.Now, Foree said, Karg’s instincts are his fishing superpower.&nbsp;“So many times they won a tournament when the fishing was really tough, and Luke said, ‘Let’s try over here. That bank looks good,’” Foree said. “And they’ll go over, and they’ll catch enough fish on that bank to win the tournament.”Karg believes his instincts have developed with the dozens of tournaments and countless hours of fishing.&nbsp;“Over time, it’s become more of an instinct, than having to think about, ‘Oh, I should make a change,’” he said. “It just naturally comes.”For instance, at both the Truman Lake and national championship, Karg said he was painting his own custom lures while he was on the boat.At Truman, he made the decision to color a half-inch chartreuse line on his spinner bait, he said, and he ended up catching much bigger fish, but less fish. If his lure had a straight tail, the catch was better as well, he said.“It’s all about how the bait works in the water,” he said. “The smallest little detail that can just trigger the fish to eat. That’s where a lot of the fun comes into it for me, is all the difficulties and fun little changes you can make. You can go from catching no fish for hours on end to catching your limit in a minute.”<h2>‘Find five’</h2>Karl Buck remembers meeting Karg when he was about 12 on a dock at the Peaceful Valley Lake in Owensville, where Karg’s grandparents have a lake house. Buck used to run a student program called the Owensville Anglers, and they were finishing up a tournament that day.“When we were doing our weigh-in down at the dam, they came down to the boat ramp to inquire,” Buck said. “He’ll probably hate this, but he was the most bashful young man, super quiet and reserved.”&nbsp;The Owensville Anglers is how Karg got his start with tournament fishing, which Buck says is much different than regular fishing.&nbsp;In a tournament, Buck said the first rule is “find five.”&nbsp;“You’re fishing for five fish,” Buck said. “Doesn’t matter what they weigh, they just got to be keepers,” meaning they are big enough to keep.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766854558899.png" alt="Luke Karg, left, and A.J. Massa hold up their top three fish at the TBF Student Angler Federation High School National Championship, which was held at Oklahoma’s Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees in June (photo submitted)." />
 <figcaption>Luke Karg, left, and A.J. Massa hold up their top three fish at the TBF Student Angler Federation High School National Championship, which was held at Oklahoma’s Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees in June (photo submitted).</figcaption>
 </figure>The fish go in the box where they’re kept alive and healthy, which is a standard conservation practice in the high-school tournaments.&nbsp;“After you have five, then you’re going to change your game,” he said. “It’s now no longer about just catching fish. You’re looking to upgrade the fish that you already have. Big fish get big for a reason. They’re hard to catch.”Big fish know how to hide, and that’s where casting skills come into play, Foree said. He called Karg’s casting skills “insane.”&nbsp;“He can skip jigs and lures and put them in places nobody else can,” Foree said. “That’s why he’s so good.”But he wasn’t always that good, Buck remembers, which is why Karg earned the nickname “Oops” after fishing with Buck and his son one day.“Luke throws this cast — I believe it was a spinner bait — and it winds up on the roof of this dock, stuck,” Buck said. “So we go up and we get it. A little while later, he makes another cast and it gets stuck on somebody’s dock.”After each time, Karg would just say, “Oops” and the nickname was born. Buck said when they fished together this past summer, he was blown away at his talent.&nbsp;Karg and Massa ended up placing 56th out of more than 200 teams in the national championship in Oklahoma.&nbsp;“We lost three three-pounders that came off the boat,” Karg said after the tournament finished. “That would have gotten us up to nine or 10 pounds. We would have been around 12th place probably.”Karg said he’s proud of his accomplishment over this high school career, and he couldn’t have done it without his fishing partners Massa and previously Kyle Kannawurf, along with their boat captains.“No one gives credit enough to our boat captains, which were both of our dads,” he said, “just giving the time to drive all the way out there and standing with us out the boat for eight hours straight a day.”As boat captain, Rick said he was in “constant amazement” at his son’s skill.“I’d just sit there and watch and think, ‘How in the world are you doing this?’” Rick said. “You’re like a super sharp shooter.”Rick said he’s watched Karg fish for seven hours without catching anything, but he’d still have the focus and creativity change his strategy and get a big catch at the last minute. Karg’s humility and attitude are among the most impressive things about him, said Foree and Buck, particularly his ability to bounce back from setbacks.“He never got rattled,” Foree said. “Oh, he’d get upset if he lost a big fish, but he’d just say, ‘Okay, I learned something from that,’ and go on to the next one. His ability to focus and stay focused in times of turmoil when he loses fish or the weather changes is very, very important in professional bass fishing.”Karg&nbsp;has his own&nbsp;<a href="https://lukesboatservices.com/about-us" target="_blank">boat detail business</a>, and there are several career paths he’s interested in taking, including a professional fisherman.&nbsp;“But for that, I would have to be away from home around 200 days of the year,” he said. “So the one I’m probably gonna go with is a natural environmentalist studying fresh water fish.”

Missouri teen makes history for tournament bass fishing

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement are investigating another homicide in Kansas City

Just after 9a.m. Friday, patrol officers were dispatched to the 7400 block of Chestnut in Kansas City, Missouri on a reported disturbance, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino. While en route the call was upgraded to a shooting.&nbsp;

As officers arrived they located two adult males in the street, suffering from gunshot wounds. KCFD EMS arrived simultaneously and performed life saving measures. Both victims were pronounced deceased on scene.&nbsp;

This is being investigated as a homicide. The preliminary investigation has revealed that there was a dispute over property, just prior to shots being fired and the victims being struck. Detectives have located several witnesses and continue to canvass the area for additional witnesses or surveillance footage. Crime scene personnel are processing the scene for any available physical evidence.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766776881531.png" alt="Photo Sheriff Daryl Forte'" />
 <figcaption>Photo Sheriff Daryl Forte'</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement are investigating another homicide in Kansas CityJust after 9a.m. Friday, patrol officers were dispatched to the 7400 block of Chestnut in Kansas City, Missouri on a reported disturbance, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino. While en route the call was upgraded to a shooting.&nbsp;As officers arrived they located two adult males in the street, suffering from gunshot wounds. KCFD EMS arrived simultaneously and performed life saving measures. Both victims were pronounced deceased on scene.&nbsp;This is being investigated as a homicide. The preliminary investigation has revealed that there was a dispute over property, just prior to shots being fired and the victims being struck. Detectives have located several witnesses and continue to canvass the area for additional witnesses or surveillance footage. Crime scene personnel are processing the scene for any available physical evidence.&nbsp;

Police: 2 dead after gun fight over property in Kansas City

JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a fatal pedestrian accident.

Just after 5:30p.m. Friday, officers were dispatched to the area of West 151st&nbsp;Street and South Black Bob Road following reports of a crash involving an SUV and a pedestrian, according to Olathe Police Sergeant John Moncayo.&nbsp;&nbsp;When officers arrived, they located an unresponsive 63-year-old man.. &nbsp;The man was transported to an area hospital where he was later pronounced deceased.&nbsp;

Officers are in contact with the driver of the SUV, and they are cooperating in the investigation

Police are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash, or whose vehicle may have captured the incident on a dash cam, 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 fatal pedestrian accident.Just after 5:30p.m. Friday, officers were dispatched to the area of West 151st&nbsp;Street and South Black Bob Road following reports of a crash involving an SUV and a pedestrian, according to Olathe Police Sergeant John Moncayo.&nbsp;&nbsp;When officers arrived, they located an unresponsive 63-year-old man.. &nbsp;The man was transported to an area hospital where he was later pronounced deceased.&nbsp;Officers are in contact with the driver of the SUV, and they are cooperating in the investigationPolice are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash, or whose vehicle may have captured the incident on a dash cam, to call the Olathe Police Department at (913) 971-6363 or the TIPS Hotline at (816) 474-8477.&nbsp;

Kansas man dies after struck by an SUV

COWLEY COUNTY —A suspect wanted for a shooting in Cowley County is finally in custody.

Earlier this month, police issued an arrest warrant and are asked the public for help to locate shooting suspect 25-year-old Levi Garwood, according to a statement from Winfield Police. The alleged crime occurred on November 22 near Main Street in Winfield. First responders found a man with a gunshot wound to the chest. EMS transported the victim to a local hospital and later to a hospital in Wichita.

Detectives conducted witness interviews and reviewed audio and video evidence before seeking a warrant through the Cowley County District Court. Just after 4:30p.m.&nbsp; December 23, Garwood was booked into the Cowley County jail, according to online jail records. He is being held&nbsp; on a $500,000 bomd on requested charges of attempted second-degree murder.&nbsp; Police have not released details of the arrest.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765985005034.png" alt="Garwood photo Winfield Police" />
 <figcaption>Garwood photo Winfield Police</figcaption>
 </figure>COWLEY COUNTY —A suspect wanted for a shooting in Cowley County is finally in custody.Earlier this month, police issued an arrest warrant and are asked the public for help to locate shooting suspect 25-year-old Levi Garwood, according to a statement from Winfield Police. The alleged crime occurred on November 22 near Main Street in Winfield. First responders found a man with a gunshot wound to the chest. EMS transported the victim to a local hospital and later to a hospital in Wichita.Detectives conducted witness interviews and reviewed audio and video evidence before seeking a warrant through the Cowley County District Court. Just after 4:30p.m.&nbsp; December 23, Garwood was booked into the Cowley County jail, according to online jail records. He is being held&nbsp; on a $500,000 bomd on requested charges of attempted second-degree murder.&nbsp; Police have not released details of the arrest.

After hiding for a month, Kan. attempted murder suspect is in custody

SALINE COUNTY —Salina Police are asking the public for help to identifiy suspects in connection with three burglaries.

On December 19, business burglaries were reported at The Boy Scouts of America, 644 S. Ohio and All Eyes on You Salon, 905 E. Prescott, both in Salina.

The suspect made forced entry into both buildings. 

The suspect took numerous food items, cash, keys, plastic cups and a Boy Scout medal from the Scout building. Total damage and loss were valued at over $3,000. The suspect took&nbsp; multiple gift cards, cash, an HP laptop, and 24 necklace chains with connectors from All Eyes on You Salon. Total damage and loss were valued at over $4,000.

Also reported that same day was a residential burglary which occurred just a couple of blocks down from the salon in central Salina. 

The suspect entered an attached garage and stole a black Kastking tacklebox, a silver lighter, and a wallet. Total loss was valued at over $100. 

Recovered from the scene was a Boy Scout medal and several food items which had been stolen from the Boy Scouts of America.

If you have any information concerning this incident or identification of the individual involved, call Crimestoppers at 825-TIPS.

You can also make an online tip at: <a href="https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=950#">https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=950#</a>.

You may receive a cash reward of up to $1,000. Tipsters may also contact the Salina Police Department at (785) 826-7210, case 2025-33993.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766766697965.png" alt="Image of suspect connected to three burglaries- Salina Police Department" />
 <figcaption>Image of suspect connected to three burglaries- Salina Police Department</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY —Salina Police are asking the public for help to identifiy suspects in connection with three burglaries.On December 19, business burglaries were reported at The Boy Scouts of America, 644 S. Ohio and All Eyes on You Salon, 905 E. Prescott, both in Salina.The suspect made forced entry into both buildings. The suspect took numerous food items, cash, keys, plastic cups and a Boy Scout medal from the Scout building. Total damage and loss were valued at over $3,000. The suspect took&nbsp; multiple gift cards, cash, an HP laptop, and 24 necklace chains with connectors from All Eyes on You Salon. Total damage and loss were valued at over $4,000.Also reported that same day was a residential burglary which occurred just a couple of blocks down from the salon in central Salina. The suspect entered an attached garage and stole a black Kastking tacklebox, a silver lighter, and a wallet. Total loss was valued at over $100. Recovered from the scene was a Boy Scout medal and several food items which had been stolen from the Boy Scouts of America.If you have any information concerning this incident or identification of the individual involved, call Crimestoppers at 825-TIPS. You can also make an online tip at: <a href="https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=950#">https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=950#</a>. You may receive a cash reward of up to $1,000. Tipsters may also contact the Salina Police Department at (785) 826-7210, case 2025-33993.

Police need help to ID suspect in central Kan. burglaries

SHAWNEE COUNTY. – On Saturday evening, December 20, at approximately 9 p.m., a Topeka Police Department officer was conducting a traffic stop at the intersection of SW 6th Street and SW Lane when a suspected impaired driver traveling at a high rate of speed rear-ended the patrol vehicle, according to a report released Friday by Topeka Police.

The crash resulted in minor injuries to the officer and an arrestee who were inside the patrol vehicle at the time of the collision. Both individuals were transported to a local hospital, treated for their injuries, and later released.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2023, one person was killed every 42 minutes in a drunk-driving crash on roadways across the United States. These crashes—and the resulting loss of life—are entirely preventable.

Beginning Friday, December 26, 2025, through Thursday, January 2, 2026, the Topeka Police Department will participate in the statewide “Taking Down DUI” New Year’s safety enforcement campaign. During the enforcement period, TPD officers will focus on identifying impaired drivers and enforcing seat belt laws to help keep Topeka roadways safe throughout the holiday season.

This enforcement initiative is made possible through a Special Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) grant provided by the Kansas Department of Transportation.

If you’re drinking, don’t drive. Responsible driving saves lives:

• Plan a safe ride home before celebrating. If you drink, don’t drive—use a rideshare service, taxi, or call a sober friend.

• If someone has been drinking, take their keys and help arrange a sober ride home.

• If you observe an impaired driver, call 911 to report it to local law enforcement.

SHAWNEE COUNTY. – On Saturday evening, December 20, at approximately 9 p.m., a Topeka Police Department officer was conducting a traffic stop at the intersection of SW 6th Street and SW Lane when a suspected impaired driver traveling at a high rate of speed rear-ended the patrol vehicle, according to a report released Friday by Topeka Police.The crash resulted in minor injuries to the officer and an arrestee who were inside the patrol vehicle at the time of the collision. Both individuals were transported to a local hospital, treated for their injuries, and later released.According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2023, one person was killed every 42 minutes in a drunk-driving crash on roadways across the United States. These crashes—and the resulting loss of life—are entirely preventable.Beginning Friday, December 26, 2025, through Thursday, January 2, 2026, the Topeka Police Department will participate in the statewide “Taking Down DUI” New Year’s safety enforcement campaign. During the enforcement period, TPD officers will focus on identifying impaired drivers and enforcing seat belt laws to help keep Topeka roadways safe throughout the holiday season.This enforcement initiative is made possible through a Special Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) grant provided by the Kansas Department of Transportation.If you’re drinking, don’t drive. Responsible driving saves lives:• Plan a safe ride home before celebrating. If you drink, don’t drive—use a rideshare service, taxi, or call a sober friend.• If someone has been drinking, take their keys and help arrange a sober ride home.• If you observe an impaired driver, call 911 to report it to local law enforcement.

Kan. officer, suspect injured after impaired driver struck patrol car

KANSAS CITY —Authorities are investigating the casue of a house fire inKansas City, Missouri.

Just after 8a.m. December 23, KCFD companies were dispatched to a reported fire in the 5500 block of East 18th&nbsp;Street in Kansas City, according to Battalion Chief Riley Nolan. On arrival, it was reported that a trailer camper and a house had heavy fire showing. Crews knocked down the flames on the exterior of the structure and made their way inside for an aggressive interior attack.

Multiple hose lines were used to extinguish the fires, which was brought under control at 8:24 a.m. Searches throughout the structure were performed and came back all clear. No injuries have been reported from this incident.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766506543851.png" alt="Photos KCFD" />
 <figcaption>Photos KCFD</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Authorities are investigating the casue of a house fire inKansas City, Missouri.Just after 8a.m. December 23, KCFD companies were dispatched to a reported fire in the 5500 block of East 18th&nbsp;Street in Kansas City, according to Battalion Chief Riley Nolan. On arrival, it was reported that a trailer camper and a house had heavy fire showing. Crews knocked down the flames on the exterior of the structure and made their way inside for an aggressive interior attack.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766506479618.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Multiple hose lines were used to extinguish the fires, which was brought under control at 8:24 a.m. Searches throughout the structure were performed and came back all clear. No injuries have been reported from this incident.

Cause of Kansas City house fire under investigation

&nbsp;JACKSON COUNTY– Law enforcement investigating a suspect on multiple allegations in connection with a burglary.

On November 7, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office received a report of criminal damage and burglary to a vehicle in the City of Delia, according to Sheriff Tim Morse. During the course of the investigation a suspect was identified as Shaun Justin Barber, 41, of Delia.&nbsp; Deputies developed probable cause to search a residence and received a search warrant for 203 East Street in Delia where the suspect was believed to be staying. 

Deputies seized illegal drugs and drug paraphernalia from the residence.&nbsp; The suspect was not present and a warrant was issued for his arrest.&nbsp; On December 22, 2025, the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office located Barber and arrested him on the outstanding Jackson County warrant.&nbsp; 

Barber was transferred to Jackson County where he was booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of criminal damage to property, possession of methamphetamine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug and possession of drug paraphernalia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766368778207.png" alt="Barber-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Barber-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;JACKSON COUNTY– Law enforcement investigating a suspect on multiple allegations in connection with a burglary.On November 7, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office received a report of criminal damage and burglary to a vehicle in the City of Delia, according to Sheriff Tim Morse. During the course of the investigation a suspect was identified as Shaun Justin Barber, 41, of Delia.&nbsp; Deputies developed probable cause to search a residence and received a search warrant for 203 East Street in Delia where the suspect was believed to be staying. Deputies seized illegal drugs and drug paraphernalia from the residence.&nbsp; The suspect was not present and a warrant was issued for his arrest.&nbsp; On December 22, 2025, the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office located Barber and arrested him on the outstanding Jackson County warrant.&nbsp; Barber was transferred to Jackson County where he was booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of criminal damage to property, possession of methamphetamine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Deputies capture Kan. suspect wanted for November burglary 

By:<a href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/author/clarkkauffman/">Clark Kauffman</a> <a href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/">Iowa Capital Dispatch</a>

The Iowa Dental Board has reinstated the license of a Waterloo dentist convicted of being intoxicated at the state prison where he was providing dental care for inmates.

State records show that in December 2023, Paymun Bayati, also identified in board records as Payum Bayati, was arrested at Anamosa State Penitentiary shortly after completing a root canal on a patient inmate.&nbsp;<a href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2024/01/18/dentist-is-accused-of-performing-a-prison-root-canal-while-intoxicated/">Bayati was charged with public intoxication</a>&nbsp;and was&nbsp;<a href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2024/10/08/dentist-convicted-public-intoxication-waits-for-final-disciplinary-action/">convicted in April 2024</a>. He subsequently agreed to voluntarily surrender his license for at least one year.

Police records show that on Dec. 7, 2023, an Anamosa police officer was dispatched to the penitentiary in reference an impaired person who was trying to drive away from the prison. The officer reported arriving at the prison and meeting with the warden, the deputy warden and Bayati.

According to the police report, the warden said nurses reported Bayati appeared to be intoxicated and had just completed a root canal on a patient. The police officer reported Bayati’s speech was slurred and he “smelled heavily” of alcohol. Bayati then submitted to a test that allegedly indicated a blood-alcohol level of 0.158 — almost twice the legal limit for driving.

“He let me search his vehicle in the parking lot, where I located an empty flask that smelled of an alcoholic beverage,” the police officer wrote in his report.

Court records, which include the judge’s notes from the ensuing criminal trial, indicate the dental assistant who worked with Bayati testified that when she arrived for work on Dec. 7, 2023, Bayati had music playing on a computer and his head was resting on the counter. The trial notes indicate she testified that later, while doing the root canal, Bayati was swaying back and forth, closing his eyes, had trouble picking up dental instruments, and smelled of alcohol.

The judge’s notes also indicate the administrator of nursing testified that after she told Bayati he could not work and instructed him to gather his belongings, he told her he loved her and asked if he still had a job. She also testified that Bayati was staggering at one point, seemed confused and was laughing inappropriately, according to the judge’s notes.

“I don’t dispute that I was intoxicated,” Bayati testified, according to the judge’s notes. “How it came about is what I am arguing. Someone poisoned me.”

<a href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2024/01/18/dentist-is-accused-of-performing-a-prison-root-canal-while-intoxicated/">Bayati told the Iowa Capital Dispatch</a>&nbsp;he doesn’t drink and believed someone, probably his dental assistant, tampered with his cup of coffee by pouring isopropyl alcohol into it after he arrived at the prison that morning.

In December 2024, six months after his license suspension took effect, Bayati sought early reinstatement of his license. After the board indicated it intended to deny that request, Bayati sought a hearing before the board.

As part of his request, Bayati provided the board with a substance abuse evaluation that didn’t recommend treatment and didn’t include a diagnosis of alcohol use disorder. Bayati also informed the board that he is subject to some form of additional substance-use monitoring by virtue of his holding a commercial pilot’s license and a commercial driver’s license as part of his trucking business.

Last month, the board concluded that Bayati had demonstrated it was in the public’s best interest to have his license reinstated, subject either to enrollment in the Iowa Professional Health Program or to three years of substance monitoring by the board.

Other Iowa dentists whose disciplinary cases recently came before the board include:

Deborah Cassill of Cedar Rapids&nbsp;– According to the board, Cassill was alleged to have allowed uncertified dental assistant trainees to take patient radiographs and perform dental work without supervision by a dentist. It was also alleged that Cassill had “rushed a patient’s dental work” and that the patient was one of her own employees.

The board, which has not disclosed when the alleged conduct took place, charged Cassill with encouraging, assisting, or enabling the unauthorized practice of dentistry, and with unprofessional conduct. To resolve the case, Cassill agreed to pay a $2,000 civil penalty and complete an “ethics program” of undefined duration.

It is the second time the board has sanctioned Cassill for improper use of staff to perform dental work.

In 1999, the board charged Cassill, then known as Deborah Trimble, with assisting or enabling the unauthorized practice of dentistry and with willfully or repeatedly violating a board rule in that she failed to protect the health of her patients by assigning unlicensed auxiliary staff duties that could not be legally delegated to them.

In that case, the board alleged Cassill regularly employed “unlicensed auxiliary staff” as dental assistants, and on many occasions allowed a dental assistant to perform procedures – including the placement and removal of temporary crowns — that constituted the practice of dentistry or dental hygiene. The case was resolved with Cassill’s license being placed on probation for five years, with the understanding that she’d complete a course on dental ethics and pay a $1,500 civil penalty.

Maria Nosworthy of Ottumwa&nbsp;– According to the board, it fielded a complaint about Nosworthy that expressed several areas of concern with her practice of dentistry, including “using force with patients,” an allegation on which the board didn’t elaborate.

The board alleges the complaint also expressed concern with regard to Nosworthy’s failure to meet infection-control standards, working on patients after they have asked her to stop, improper use of local anesthesia, failure to perform comprehensive patient examinations, poor communication with patients, failure to meet the expected standard of care, and unprofessionalism.

The available board documents don’t indicate when any of the alleged conduct took place.

The board charged Nosworthy with practicing dentistry in a manner that is harmful or detrimental to the public, unprofessional or unethical conduct, and failure to maintain a satisfactory standard of competency.

Without agreeing to any wrongdoing, Nosworthy recently agreed to settlement that calls for her to complete a remedial education program that deals with restorative care, ethics and recordkeeping.

No civil penalties or restrictions on Nosworthy’s license were imposed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1565623376059.jpeg" alt="Image pixaby" />
 <figcaption>Image pixaby</figcaption>
 </figure>By:<a href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/author/clarkkauffman/">Clark Kauffman</a> <a href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/">Iowa Capital Dispatch</a>The Iowa Dental Board has reinstated the license of a Waterloo dentist convicted of being intoxicated at the state prison where he was providing dental care for inmates.State records show that in December 2023, Paymun Bayati, also identified in board records as Payum Bayati, was arrested at Anamosa State Penitentiary shortly after completing a root canal on a patient inmate.&nbsp;<a href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2024/01/18/dentist-is-accused-of-performing-a-prison-root-canal-while-intoxicated/">Bayati was charged with public intoxication</a>&nbsp;and was&nbsp;<a href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2024/10/08/dentist-convicted-public-intoxication-waits-for-final-disciplinary-action/">convicted in April 2024</a>. He subsequently agreed to voluntarily surrender his license for at least one year.Police records show that on Dec. 7, 2023, an Anamosa police officer was dispatched to the penitentiary in reference an impaired person who was trying to drive away from the prison. The officer reported arriving at the prison and meeting with the warden, the deputy warden and Bayati.According to the police report, the warden said nurses reported Bayati appeared to be intoxicated and had just completed a root canal on a patient. The police officer reported Bayati’s speech was slurred and he “smelled heavily” of alcohol. Bayati then submitted to a test that allegedly indicated a blood-alcohol level of 0.158 — almost twice the legal limit for driving.“He let me search his vehicle in the parking lot, where I located an empty flask that smelled of an alcoholic beverage,” the police officer wrote in his report.Court records, which include the judge’s notes from the ensuing criminal trial, indicate the dental assistant who worked with Bayati testified that when she arrived for work on Dec. 7, 2023, Bayati had music playing on a computer and his head was resting on the counter. The trial notes indicate she testified that later, while doing the root canal, Bayati was swaying back and forth, closing his eyes, had trouble picking up dental instruments, and smelled of alcohol.The judge’s notes also indicate the administrator of nursing testified that after she told Bayati he could not work and instructed him to gather his belongings, he told her he loved her and asked if he still had a job. She also testified that Bayati was staggering at one point, seemed confused and was laughing inappropriately, according to the judge’s notes.“I don’t dispute that I was intoxicated,” Bayati testified, according to the judge’s notes. “How it came about is what I am arguing. Someone poisoned me.”<a href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2024/01/18/dentist-is-accused-of-performing-a-prison-root-canal-while-intoxicated/">Bayati told the Iowa Capital Dispatch</a>&nbsp;he doesn’t drink and believed someone, probably his dental assistant, tampered with his cup of coffee by pouring isopropyl alcohol into it after he arrived at the prison that morning.In December 2024, six months after his license suspension took effect, Bayati sought early reinstatement of his license. After the board indicated it intended to deny that request, Bayati sought a hearing before the board.As part of his request, Bayati provided the board with a substance abuse evaluation that didn’t recommend treatment and didn’t include a diagnosis of alcohol use disorder. Bayati also informed the board that he is subject to some form of additional substance-use monitoring by virtue of his holding a commercial pilot’s license and a commercial driver’s license as part of his trucking business.Last month, the board concluded that Bayati had demonstrated it was in the public’s best interest to have his license reinstated, subject either to enrollment in the Iowa Professional Health Program or to three years of substance monitoring by the board.<h2>Other Iowa dentists sanctioned</h2>Other Iowa dentists whose disciplinary cases recently came before the board include:Deborah Cassill of Cedar Rapids&nbsp;– According to the board, Cassill was alleged to have allowed uncertified dental assistant trainees to take patient radiographs and perform dental work without supervision by a dentist. It was also alleged that Cassill had “rushed a patient’s dental work” and that the patient was one of her own employees.The board, which has not disclosed when the alleged conduct took place, charged Cassill with encouraging, assisting, or enabling the unauthorized practice of dentistry, and with unprofessional conduct. To resolve the case, Cassill agreed to pay a $2,000 civil penalty and complete an “ethics program” of undefined duration.It is the second time the board has sanctioned Cassill for improper use of staff to perform dental work.In 1999, the board charged Cassill, then known as Deborah Trimble, with assisting or enabling the unauthorized practice of dentistry and with willfully or repeatedly violating a board rule in that she failed to protect the health of her patients by assigning unlicensed auxiliary staff duties that could not be legally delegated to them.In that case, the board alleged Cassill regularly employed “unlicensed auxiliary staff” as dental assistants, and on many occasions allowed a dental assistant to perform procedures – including the placement and removal of temporary crowns — that constituted the practice of dentistry or dental hygiene. The case was resolved with Cassill’s license being placed on probation for five years, with the understanding that she’d complete a course on dental ethics and pay a $1,500 civil penalty.Maria Nosworthy of Ottumwa&nbsp;– According to the board, it fielded a complaint about Nosworthy that expressed several areas of concern with her practice of dentistry, including “using force with patients,” an allegation on which the board didn’t elaborate.The board alleges the complaint also expressed concern with regard to Nosworthy’s failure to meet infection-control standards, working on patients after they have asked her to stop, improper use of local anesthesia, failure to perform comprehensive patient examinations, poor communication with patients, failure to meet the expected standard of care, and unprofessionalism.The available board documents don’t indicate when any of the alleged conduct took place.The board charged Nosworthy with practicing dentistry in a manner that is harmful or detrimental to the public, unprofessional or unethical conduct, and failure to maintain a satisfactory standard of competency.Without agreeing to any wrongdoing, Nosworthy recently agreed to settlement that calls for her to complete a remedial education program that deals with restorative care, ethics and recordkeeping.No civil penalties or restrictions on Nosworthy’s license were imposed.

Board reinstates license of dentist convicted of being intoxicated at work

KANSAS CITY —One person died in an accident just after 4a.m. Thursday in Kansas City.

&nbsp;According to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino, a 2015 Harley Davidson was southbound on West Pennway at 26th Street. The driver failed the negotiate the curve of the roadway. The motorcycle struck a light pole. The driver was pronounced deceased on scene. Police released no additional details on Christmas Day.

KANSAS CITY —One person died in an accident just after 4a.m. Thursday in Kansas City.&nbsp;According to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino, a 2015 Harley Davidson was southbound on West Pennway at 26th Street. The driver failed the negotiate the curve of the roadway. The motorcycle struck a light pole. The driver was pronounced deceased on scene. Police released no additional details on Christmas Day.

KCPD: Driver died after motorcycle strikes a light pole

KANSAS CITY —Authorities are investigating after a victim was rescued from small lake in Kansas City on Christmas Eve.

Just after 11:45p.m. Wednesday, the Kansas City Fire Department was dispatched to a reported water rescue near the 8400 block of North Overland Court, according to Battalion Chief Riley Nolan.

First responders found a man who was in waist deep water and stuck in the mud, approximately 30-40 yards off the bank.&nbsp;Rescue crews deployed a rope bag, by throwing it out to the victim, who was able to grab it and was then assisted to shore at 12:16 a.m. 

The victim was evaluated by on-scene personnel and transported by ambulance to a nearby hospital. It is unknown how he ended up in the water. The KCFD released no additional details.

KANSAS CITY —Authorities are investigating after a victim was rescued from small lake in Kansas City on Christmas Eve.Just after 11:45p.m. Wednesday, the Kansas City Fire Department was dispatched to a reported water rescue near the 8400 block of North Overland Court, according to Battalion Chief Riley Nolan.First responders found a man who was in waist deep water and stuck in the mud, approximately 30-40 yards off the bank.&nbsp;Rescue crews deployed a rope bag, by throwing it out to the victim, who was able to grab it and was then assisted to shore at 12:16 a.m. The victim was evaluated by on-scene personnel and transported by ambulance to a nearby hospital. It is unknown how he ended up in the water. The KCFD released no additional details.

KC emergency crews made water rescue Christmas Eve

KANSAS CITY, Mo. –&nbsp;A Texas woman was sentenced in federal court last week for her leadership role in a case that resulted in more than $250,000 in fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans being issued under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.

Daisha Sanders, formerly from Kansas City, Mo., 34, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Beth Phillips to 18 months imprisonment based upon her conspiracy to commit wire fraud relating to a scheme to fraudulently obtain Paycheck Protection Plan (PPP) loans, guaranteed by the SBA under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act).

Sanders conspired with others to prepare and file fraudulent PPP loan applications on their behalf.&nbsp; Sanders received kickbacks of $5,000 for each of the $20,832 PPP loans. Sanders filed false PPP loan applications for numerous persons resulting in a loss of approximately $270,820,33, which she was ordered to pay back in a restitution judgment.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul S. Becker. It was investigated by IRS-Criminal Investigation and the Kansas City, Missouri, Police Department.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. –&nbsp;A Texas woman was sentenced in federal court last week for her leadership role in a case that resulted in more than $250,000 in fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans being issued under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.Daisha Sanders, formerly from Kansas City, Mo., 34, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Beth Phillips to 18 months imprisonment based upon her conspiracy to commit wire fraud relating to a scheme to fraudulently obtain Paycheck Protection Plan (PPP) loans, guaranteed by the SBA under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act).Sanders conspired with others to prepare and file fraudulent PPP loan applications on their behalf.&nbsp; Sanders received kickbacks of $5,000 for each of the $20,832 PPP loans. Sanders filed false PPP loan applications for numerous persons resulting in a loss of approximately $270,820,33, which she was ordered to pay back in a restitution judgment.This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul S. Becker. It was investigated by IRS-Criminal Investigation and the Kansas City, Missouri, Police Department.

Prison: Former KC woman led $250K fraud scheme

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> “Tonight, at my direction as Commander in Chief, the United States launched a powerful and deadly strike against ISIS Terrorist Scum in Northwest Nigeria, who have been targeting and viciously killing, primarily, innocent Christians, at levels not seen for many years, and… <a href="https://t.co/ct7rUW128t">pic.twitter.com/ct7rUW128t</a>&mdash; Department of War 🇺🇸 (@DeptofWar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DeptofWar/status/2004351717131903272?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The President was clear last month: the killing of innocent Christians in Nigeria (and elsewhere) must end. The <a href="https://twitter.com/DeptofWar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DeptofWar</a> is always ready, so ISIS found out tonight — on Christmas. More to come… Grateful for Nigerian government support &amp; cooperation. Merry Christmas! <a href="https://t.co/k5Q3Qd4ClE">https://t.co/k5Q3Qd4ClE</a>&mdash; Pete Hegseth (@PeteHegseth) <a href="https://twitter.com/PeteHegseth/status/2004332431542022289?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Read our press release: <a href="https://t.co/tcHZFTTrju">https://t.co/tcHZFTTrju</a>&mdash; U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) (@USAfricaCommand) <a href="https://twitter.com/USAfricaCommand/status/2004331056812761430?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

US launches strike against Islamic State militants in Nigeria

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating another homicide in Kansas City, Missouri have identified the woman who died as 52-year-old Sherrie Baier.

&nbsp;Just after 10a.m. Monday, patrol officers were dispatched to 27th&nbsp;and Quincy on a reported cutting, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.

 When officers arrived, they located an adult female victim suffering from laceration wounds.&nbsp; She was transported to a local hospital for treatment of serious, but non-life-threatening injuries.&nbsp; While officers were on scene investigating, they received information about the location of a possible suspect.&nbsp;

Just before 10:30a.m., officers responded to the 6600 block of E 16th&nbsp;street to investigate the information they received.&nbsp; When they arrived, possible crime scene evidence was located, and they were directed to a residence on 16th Street.&nbsp; Inside, they discovered Baier suffering from unknown bodily trauma.&nbsp; KCFD EMS responded and pronounced her deceased on scene.&nbsp;

This is being investigated as a homicide.&nbsp; A subject of interest was taken into custody on 16th Street, pending further investigation.&nbsp; Detectives are working to determine what led up to the incidents and if the scenes are related.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766491333267.png" alt="Photo Sheriff Daryl Forte'" />
 <figcaption>Photo Sheriff Daryl Forte'</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating another homicide in Kansas City, Missouri have identified the woman who died as 52-year-old Sherrie Baier.&nbsp;Just after 10a.m. Monday, patrol officers were dispatched to 27th&nbsp;and Quincy on a reported cutting, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino. When officers arrived, they located an adult female victim suffering from laceration wounds.&nbsp; She was transported to a local hospital for treatment of serious, but non-life-threatening injuries.&nbsp; While officers were on scene investigating, they received information about the location of a possible suspect.&nbsp;Just before 10:30a.m., officers responded to the 6600 block of E 16th&nbsp;street to investigate the information they received.&nbsp; When they arrived, possible crime scene evidence was located, and they were directed to a residence on 16th Street.&nbsp; Inside, they discovered Baier suffering from unknown bodily trauma.&nbsp; KCFD EMS responded and pronounced her deceased on scene.&nbsp;This is being investigated as a homicide.&nbsp; A subject of interest was taken into custody on 16th Street, pending further investigation.&nbsp; Detectives are working to determine what led up to the incidents and if the scenes are related.&nbsp;

Police: 52-year-old woman died of 'bodily trauma' in KC home

Missouri was already unlikely to ever collect a dime, legal experts agree, and the countersuit could expose U.S. assets to retaliation

By:&nbsp;<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>

Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway has cast news that she is being sued by the Chinese government as a badge of honor, pointing to the lawsuit as proof that her&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-wants-to-seize-chinese-assets-to-recover-24-billion-judgment-in-covid-case/">aggressive push to collect on a roughly $25 billion</a>&nbsp;court judgment tied to the COVID-19 pandemic is having an impact.

But experts in international law say the lawsuit, filed in China earlier this year and announced last week by Hanaway, is more likely to do the opposite — making an already remote chance that Missouri will ever collect that money even slimmer, while potentially exposing U.S. assets abroad to retaliation.

Hanaway said last week in a news release that China is demanding a public apology from the state in a complaint filed in the Intermediate People’s Court of Wuhan, along with damages equivalent to $50.5 billion, legal fees and the right to seek additional compensation.

“This lawsuit is a stalling tactic and tells me that we have been on the right side of this issue all along,” Hanaway said.

The suit was filed after Missouri secured a default judgment earlier this year in a federal case alleging that China hoarded personal protective equipment during the early months of the pandemic. A judge ruled for Missouri after China declined to participate in the trial, awarding the state roughly $25 billion in damages.

Hanaway has since asked the U.S. State Department to notify China that Missouri intends to pursue assets with full or partial Chinese government ownership to satisfy the judgment. Her office is also assembling a list of Chinese properties that could be targeted, focusing on assets owned outright by the Chinese government or by companies in which it has a stake.

Legal scholars say those efforts face steep, and likely insurmountable, obstacles.

Chimène Keitner, director of the U.C. Davis Center for International Law &amp; Policy, said government-owned property is generally protected by sovereign immunity — meaning Chinese government assets in the United States are shielded from seizure, just as U.S. government property is protected abroad.

China’s countersuit, she said, also appears unlikely to result in any recovery. But it carries legal and diplomatic implications that could further complicate Missouri’s case.

International law recognizes a doctrine known as “countermeasures,” Keitner said, which allows a country to take actions it otherwise could not as a way of pressuring another country to comply with international law.

If the U.S. government were to authorize Missouri’s efforts to seize Chinese assets, she said, it could expose American property in China to reciprocal action.

“So if Missouri violates China’s sovereign immunity,” Keitner said, “China could have a good argument for doing the same thing — not just against Missouri, but against the United States as a whole.”

William Dodge, a law professor at George Washington University who specializes in international law a, said neither lawsuit “has a prayer of being enforced.”

Even if Missouri were allowed to pursue assets, Dodge said, the scope would be narrow. Only property owned by the defendants named in the lawsuit — including the Chinese government, the Communist Party of China, several national agencies, provincial and local governments around Wuhan and the Wuhan Institute of Virology — could potentially be targeted.

And the state would still have to show that those specific entities were involved in hoarding personal protective equipment, he said.

Dodge, who has&nbsp;<a href="https://tlblog.org/author/william-dodge/" target="_blank">written extensively about Missouri’s lawsuit and a similar effort in Mississippi</a>, agreed that China’s complaint further reduces the already slim likelihood that Missouri will be able to collect because it raises the risk of retaliation.

“China’s law has a reciprocity provision,” he said. “It basically says that if a foreign country gives China less immunity than Chinese law provides, China can respond by giving that foreign country less immunity. In other words: whatever the U.S. does to us, we can do to them.”

U.S. District Judge Stephen Limbaugh initially dismissed Missouri’s lawsuit in 2022, ruling that the state could not sue China. An appeals court later allowed one claim to proceed — the allegation that China hoarded items such as respirator masks, medical gowns and gloves.

After Chinese officials failed to respond, Limbaugh accepted Missouri’s estimate of past and future damages of more than $8 billion, tripled it as federal law allows, and added 3.91% interest until the judgment is paid.

In an emailed statement last month, Liu Pengyu, a spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington, said China’s pandemic response involved “acts of national sovereignty” that are not subject to the jurisdiction of U.S. courts.

China will not pay, Liu said, and “will retaliate if necessary.”

The lawsuit filed in China accuses Missouri of “fabricating enormous disinformation” and spreading “stigmatizing and discriminating slanders” that it says have damaged China’s reputation.

“We stand undeterred in our mission to collect on our $24 billion judgment that was lawfully handed down in federal court,” she said.

Neither side’s claims are likely to result in any tangible recovery, Keitner said, leaving the dispute largely symbolic.

“Unfortunately, this all seems to be a lot of unhelpful political theater,” she said, “with no clear off-ramp for either side to save face.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656529671105.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Missouri was already unlikely to ever collect a dime, legal experts agree, and the countersuit could expose U.S. assets to retaliation</h2>By:&nbsp;<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>Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway has cast news that she is being sued by the Chinese government as a badge of honor, pointing to the lawsuit as proof that her&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-wants-to-seize-chinese-assets-to-recover-24-billion-judgment-in-covid-case/">aggressive push to collect on a roughly $25 billion</a>&nbsp;court judgment tied to the COVID-19 pandemic is having an impact.But experts in international law say the lawsuit, filed in China earlier this year and announced last week by Hanaway, is more likely to do the opposite — making an already remote chance that Missouri will ever collect that money even slimmer, while potentially exposing U.S. assets abroad to retaliation.Hanaway said last week in a news release that China is demanding a public apology from the state in a complaint filed in the Intermediate People’s Court of Wuhan, along with damages equivalent to $50.5 billion, legal fees and the right to seek additional compensation.“This lawsuit is a stalling tactic and tells me that we have been on the right side of this issue all along,” Hanaway said.The suit was filed after Missouri secured a default judgment earlier this year in a federal case alleging that China hoarded personal protective equipment during the early months of the pandemic. A judge ruled for Missouri after China declined to participate in the trial, awarding the state roughly $25 billion in damages.Hanaway has since asked the U.S. State Department to notify China that Missouri intends to pursue assets with full or partial Chinese government ownership to satisfy the judgment. Her office is also assembling a list of Chinese properties that could be targeted, focusing on assets owned outright by the Chinese government or by companies in which it has a stake.Legal scholars say those efforts face steep, and likely insurmountable, obstacles.Chimène Keitner, director of the U.C. Davis Center for International Law &amp; Policy, said government-owned property is generally protected by sovereign immunity — meaning Chinese government assets in the United States are shielded from seizure, just as U.S. government property is protected abroad.China’s countersuit, she said, also appears unlikely to result in any recovery. But it carries legal and diplomatic implications that could further complicate Missouri’s case.International law recognizes a doctrine known as “countermeasures,” Keitner said, which allows a country to take actions it otherwise could not as a way of pressuring another country to comply with international law.If the U.S. government were to authorize Missouri’s efforts to seize Chinese assets, she said, it could expose American property in China to reciprocal action.“So if Missouri violates China’s sovereign immunity,” Keitner said, “China could have a good argument for doing the same thing — not just against Missouri, but against the United States as a whole.”William Dodge, a law professor at George Washington University who specializes in international law a, said neither lawsuit “has a prayer of being enforced.”Even if Missouri were allowed to pursue assets, Dodge said, the scope would be narrow. Only property owned by the defendants named in the lawsuit — including the Chinese government, the Communist Party of China, several national agencies, provincial and local governments around Wuhan and the Wuhan Institute of Virology — could potentially be targeted.And the state would still have to show that those specific entities were involved in hoarding personal protective equipment, he said.Dodge, who has&nbsp;<a href="https://tlblog.org/author/william-dodge/" target="_blank">written extensively about Missouri’s lawsuit and a similar effort in Mississippi</a>, agreed that China’s complaint further reduces the already slim likelihood that Missouri will be able to collect because it raises the risk of retaliation.“China’s law has a reciprocity provision,” he said. “It basically says that if a foreign country gives China less immunity than Chinese law provides, China can respond by giving that foreign country less immunity. In other words: whatever the U.S. does to us, we can do to them.”U.S. District Judge Stephen Limbaugh initially dismissed Missouri’s lawsuit in 2022, ruling that the state could not sue China. An appeals court later allowed one claim to proceed — the allegation that China hoarded items such as respirator masks, medical gowns and gloves.After Chinese officials failed to respond, Limbaugh accepted Missouri’s estimate of past and future damages of more than $8 billion, tripled it as federal law allows, and added 3.91% interest until the judgment is paid.In an emailed statement last month, Liu Pengyu, a spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington, said China’s pandemic response involved “acts of national sovereignty” that are not subject to the jurisdiction of U.S. courts.China will not pay, Liu said, and “will retaliate if necessary.”The lawsuit filed in China accuses Missouri of “fabricating enormous disinformation” and spreading “stigmatizing and discriminating slanders” that it says have damaged China’s reputation.Hanaway scoffed at China’s criticism.“We stand undeterred in our mission to collect on our $24 billion judgment that was lawfully handed down in federal court,” she said.Neither side’s claims are likely to result in any tangible recovery, Keitner said, leaving the dispute largely symbolic.“Unfortunately, this all seems to be a lot of unhelpful political theater,” she said, “with no clear off-ramp for either side to save face.”

China’s lawsuit makes Missouri’s $25 billion COVID judgment even harder to collect

JACKSON COUNTY, Mo. —A Jackson County sheriff's deputy struck by a car while investigating an accident was released from the hospital on Christmas Eve, according to Jackson County Sheriff Daryl Forte'. 

Just after 6p.m. December 17, a 2012 Mercedes driven by a 69-year-old Lee's Summit woman was southbound at South Buckner Tarsney at E. Ryan Road. The vehicle traveled into the crash scene and struck the the 53-year-old deputy, according to the MSHP.

Central Jackson County EMS transported the deputy to Centerpoint Medical Center where he underwnt several medical procedures.

"He’s in good spirits, has a positive mindset, and is expected to fully recover.&nbsp; He’s blessed to be surrounded by a caring family," according to Forte'

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766358531941.png" alt="photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY, Mo. —A Jackson County sheriff's deputy struck by a car while investigating an accident was released from the hospital on Christmas Eve, according to Jackson County Sheriff Daryl Forte'. Just after 6p.m. December 17, a 2012 Mercedes driven by a 69-year-old Lee's Summit woman was southbound at South Buckner Tarsney at E. Ryan Road. The vehicle traveled into the crash scene and struck the the 53-year-old deputy, according to the MSHP.Central Jackson County EMS transported the deputy to Centerpoint Medical Center where he underwnt several medical procedures."He’s in good spirits, has a positive mindset, and is expected to fully recover.&nbsp; He’s blessed to be surrounded by a caring family," according to Forte'

Merry Christmas: Deputy struck by a car released from hospital

The Powerball® jackpot has been won in Arkansas, according to the Multi-State Lottery Association. A single ticket sold in Arkansas matched all six numbers drawn last night to win a $1.817 billion jackpot. The jackpot has a cash option of $834.9 million.

The winning numbers in the Wednesday, Dec. 24 Powerball drawing were white balls 4, 25, 31, 52, 59 and red Powerball 19. The Power Play® multiplier was 2.

With final ticket sales, the Powerball jackpot reached $1.817 billion, making it the second-largest U.S. lottery jackpot ever won and the largest Powerball prize this year.

“Congratulations to the newest Powerball jackpot winner! This is truly an extraordinary, life-changing prize,” said Matt Strawn, Powerball Product Group Chair and Iowa Lottery CEO. “We also want to thank all the players who joined in this jackpot streak – every ticket purchased helps support public programs and services across the country.”

The Powerball® jackpot has been won in Arkansas, according to the Multi-State Lottery Association. A single ticket sold in Arkansas matched all six numbers drawn last night to win a $1.817 billion jackpot. The jackpot has a cash option of $834.9 million.The winning numbers in the Wednesday, Dec. 24 Powerball drawing were white balls 4, 25, 31, 52, 59 and red Powerball 19. The Power Play® multiplier was 2.With final ticket sales, the Powerball jackpot reached $1.817 billion, making it the second-largest U.S. lottery jackpot ever won and the largest Powerball prize this year.“Congratulations to the newest Powerball jackpot winner! This is truly an extraordinary, life-changing prize,” said Matt Strawn, Powerball Product Group Chair and Iowa Lottery CEO. “We also want to thank all the players who joined in this jackpot streak – every ticket purchased helps support public programs and services across the country.”This marks the second time the Powerball® jackpot has been won by a ticket sold in Arkansas; the first was in 2010.The lucky ticket holder will have the choice between an annuitized prize of $1.817 billion or a lump sump payment of $834.9 million. Both prize options are before taxes. If a winner selects the annuity option, they will receive one immediate payment followed by 29 annual payments that increase by 5-percent each year.U.S. lotteries are reminding players to check their tickets carefully, as many tickets won cash prizes in last night’s drawing.Nationwide, eight tickets matched all five white balls. The winning Match 5 tickets were sold in California, Indiana, Michigan, New York (2), Ohio, Pennsylvania and Virginia. The Match 5 prize is a set cash prize of $1 million except in California, where prize payout amounts are pari-mutuel and determined by sales and the number of winners.The drawing also produced 114 tickets that won $50,000 prizes and 31 tickets that won $100,000 prizes.In the Double Play® drawing, two tickets sold in Colorado and South Carolina won $500,000 prizes after matching all five black balls. Double Play is a $1 add-on feature that allows players to player their Powerball numbers, again, in a separate drawing for a chance to win up to $10 million. The Double Play drawing is live streamed on<a href="https://www.powerball.com/watch-drawing">&nbsp;Powerball.com</a>&nbsp;following the main Powerball drawing.Last night’s Powerball drawing was the 47th in the jackpot run – a game record for the most drawings in a jackpot cycle. The Powerball jackpot was previously won on Sept. 6 by two tickets in Missouri and Texas that split a $1.787 billion prize.For the next drawing on Saturday night, the Powerball jackpot resets to $20 million. The Power Play® 10X multiplier will be available for play since the advertised jackpot is below $150 million.Powerball® tickets are $2 per play. Tickets are sold in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. More than half of all proceeds from the sale of a Powerball ticket remain in the jurisdiction where the ticket was sold. Since its first drawing in 1992, the Powerball game has helped generate more than $37 billion for good causes supported by U.S. lotteries.Powerball drawings are broadcast live every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday at 10:59 p.m. ET from the Florida Lottery draw studio in Tallahassee, Fla. Powerball drawings are also live streamed on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.powerball.com/watch-drawing">Powerball.com</a>.The overall odds of winning a prize are 1 in 24.9. The odds of winning the jackpot are 1 in 292.2 million.Record U.S. Lottery Jackpots<ol>
 <li>$2.04 Billion – Powerball – Nov. 7, 2022 – CA</li><li>$1.817 Billion – Powerball – Dec. 24, 2025 – AR</li><li>$1.787 Billion – Powerball – Sept. 6, 2025 – MO, TX</li><li>$1.765 Billion – Powerball – Oct. 11, 2023 - CA</li><li>$1.602 Billion – Mega Millions – Aug. 8, 2023 – FL</li><li>$1.586 Billion – Powerball – Jan. 13, 2016 – CA, FL, TN</li><li>$1.537 Billion – Mega Millions – Oct. 23, 2018 – SC</li><li>$1.348 Billion – Mega Millions – Jan. 13, 2023 – ME</li><li>$1.337 Billion – Mega Millions – July 29, 2022 – IL</li><li>$1.326 Billion – Powerball – April 6, 2024 – OR</li>
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