KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with theft of a historic church bell near Kansas City.&nbsp;

On Thursday the Cass County Prosecutor’s Office announced charges linked to the theft of a historic church bell in Gunn City, Missouri, approximately 50 miles southeast of Kansas City.

Christopher Longacre, 36, of Garden City Missouri, has been charged with felony theft and possession of a controlled substance. He has also been charged with a misdemeanor for resisting arrest.

On Wednesday, deputies located parts of the historic bell while serving a warrant to Longacre. It had been reported stolen on September 11. The next day, investigators obtained and executed a search warrant for Longacre after getting information he was in possession of the bell. 

When deputies arrived at Longacre’s residence, he fled on foot. Investigators were unable to find any remnants of the bell that day.

On Thursday during a traffic stop, Deputies arrested Longacre on a failure to appear warrant and found pieces of the historic bell during the probable cause search. 

Investigators found Longacre had cut down parts of the bell. They have reason to believe he was trying to scrap the remnants of the bell and sell them. 

The bell is part of a church in Gunn City dating back to 1882. The bell survived a fire in the 1920s that burned down the church when it was a log cabin. It was put back up in the church which is still standing.

Longacre is held at the Cass County Jail on a $25,000 cash-only bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695395993620.png" alt="Broken brass pieces resembling the stolen bell were located inside a 5-gallon bucket in the car's trunk, according to the Sheriff's office. photo Cass County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Broken brass pieces resembling the stolen bell were located inside a 5-gallon bucket in the car's trunk, according to the Sheriff's office. photo Cass County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with theft of a historic church bell near Kansas City.&nbsp;On Thursday the Cass County Prosecutor’s Office announced charges linked to the theft of a historic church bell in Gunn City, Missouri, approximately 50 miles southeast of Kansas City.Christopher Longacre, 36, of Garden City Missouri, has been charged with felony theft and possession of a controlled substance. He has also been charged with a misdemeanor for resisting arrest.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695396480247.png" alt="Photo Cass Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photo Cass Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>On Wednesday, deputies located parts of the historic bell while serving a warrant to Longacre. It had been reported stolen on September 11. The next day, investigators obtained and executed a search warrant for Longacre after getting information he was in possession of the bell. When deputies arrived at Longacre’s residence, he fled on foot. Investigators were unable to find any remnants of the bell that day.On Thursday during a traffic stop, Deputies arrested Longacre on a failure to appear warrant and found pieces of the historic bell during the probable cause search. Investigators found Longacre had cut down parts of the bell. They have reason to believe he was trying to scrap the remnants of the bell and sell them. The bell is part of a church in Gunn City dating back to 1882. The bell survived a fire in the 1920s that burned down the church when it was a log cabin. It was put back up in the church which is still standing.Longacre is held at the Cass County Jail on a $25,000 cash-only bond.

Man charged in theft of historic KC-area church bell

ELLIS COUNTY —A Kansas man was found guilty Friday  of pre-meditated first-degree murder after a week-long trial in Ellis County District Court, according to a media release from the county attorney. The jury deliberated for slightly more than two hours,&nbsp;according to a news release from the Ellis County Attorney's Office.

Colby Alan Trickle, 29, Hays, was charged with pre-meditated first-degree murder in the&nbsp;Oct. 31, 2019 shooting death of his 27-year-old wife Kristin Trickle, 27.

The defendant was also charged with falsely reporting information twice to Hays Police Department officers during the investigation. He was arrested in July 2021.

Sentencing for Trickle has yet to be scheduled.&nbsp;

Kansas law requires the defendant to be sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for a 50-years for the conviction of premeditated murder in the first degree.

“Sadly, we will never be able to bring Kristen Trickle back. It is my hope however, that this conviction brings some level of comfort and healing to those who knew and loved Kristen," said Ellis County Attorney Robert Anderson in the news release.

“This result is the culmination of a lot of hard work and hours invested by many people devoted to the safety of this community. The diligence, determination, and dedication of our local law enforcement and first responders have led to this moment for Kristen Trickle and her family.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626522324942.png" alt="Trickle-photo Ellis County" />
 <figcaption>Trickle-photo Ellis County</figcaption>
 </figure>ELLIS COUNTY —A Kansas man was found guilty Friday of pre-meditated first-degree murder after a week-long trial in Ellis County District Court, according to a media release from the county attorney. The jury deliberated for slightly more than two hours,&nbsp;according to a news release from the Ellis County Attorney's Office.Colby Alan Trickle, 29, Hays, was charged with pre-meditated first-degree murder in the&nbsp;Oct. 31, 2019 shooting death of his 27-year-old wife Kristin Trickle, 27.The defendant was also charged with falsely reporting information twice to Hays Police Department officers during the investigation. He was arrested in July 2021.Sentencing for Trickle has yet to be scheduled.&nbsp;Kansas law requires the defendant to be sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for a 50-years for the conviction of premeditated murder in the first degree.“Sadly, we will never be able to bring Kristen Trickle back. It is my hope however, that this conviction brings some level of comfort and healing to those who knew and loved Kristen," said Ellis County Attorney Robert Anderson in the news release.“This result is the culmination of a lot of hard work and hours invested by many people devoted to the safety of this community. The diligence, determination, and dedication of our local law enforcement and first responders have led to this moment for Kristen Trickle and her family.”

Jury: Western Kan. man guilty in pre-meditated murder of his wife

KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City-area man was sentenced in federal court this week for two fraud schemes in which he sold unwitting victims rental equipment and real estate that did not belong to him, according to the United State's Attorney.

Jeremy Ace Woods, 46, Independence, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs to 17 years in federal prison without parole. The court also ordered Woods to pay $798,021 in restitution to 48 victims and to forfeit to the government $336,150, which represents the proceeds he personally received from the charged conduct in this case.

On Dec. 14, 2022, Woods pleaded guilty to three counts of travel fraud and two counts of wire fraud as part of a rental-equipment scheme and a real estate scheme that victimized at least 48 individuals or businesses.

$1,187,177 Rental Equipment Fraud Scheme

As part of the rental-equipment scheme, Woods stole approximately 96 pieces of rental equipment valued at approximately $999,077 from 25 separate rental companies. He then sold at least 41 pieces of equipment to at least 15 victim buyers from across the Midwest, including buyers from Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. These victim buyers paid Woods a total of $188,100 for the stolen equipment.

According to court documents, Woods used aliases and lies to enter into sexual relationships with multiple women and employment relationships with multiple men. He exploited these relationships by asking these individuals to rent equipment for him, thus acting as straw renters of the equipment — using their real names and banking information to obtain the equipment. Once the rental equipment was obtained, Woods — again, using various aliases — lined up buyers for the stolen equipment by posting the equipment for sale on Facebook Marketplace or similar websites.

Through this scheme, the unwitting straw renters suffered damage to their credit scores and suffered financial losses; the victim rental companies suffered financial losses; and the victim buyers — many of whom were small business owners — sustained devastating financial losses when the equipment they purchased was ultimately returned to the appropriate rental companies. According to the victim declarations, this fraud had a direct impact on multiple victims’ financial solvency and caused substantial loss of retirement, education, or other savings.

Among the rental equipment cited in court documents as being stolen then sold by Woods is a Boxer skid steer from Home Depot in Olathe, Kan., a Bobcat skid steer from United Rentals in Olathe, and a Toro Dingo TX 1000 compact utility loader from Colman Equipment in Smithville, Mo.

As part of the relevant conduct in the scheme, Woods entered into a romantic relationship with a woman with an intellectual disability. Woods exploited this relationship by having the woman buy and rent property for him, including a truck, multiple trailers, and 12 smart phones. Additionally, Woods told the woman they were going to get married, and – based on those lies – used her money to purchase a $3,500 ring for himself.

$1,042,000 Real Estate Fraud Scheme

As part of the real-estate scheme, Woods fraudulently sold 12 homes he did not own, extracting large down payments and monthly installment payments from unsuspecting victim buyers, from September 2021 to February 2022. The scheme involved total payments, made or intended, of over $1 million.

In this scheme, Woods (through his companies, Ace’s Remediation and Lawn Service or Vaughns Property Management) solicited and received subcontracting jobs for maintenance tasks on homes going through the foreclosure process, many of which were owned by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development. Instead of honoring the contracts and performing the agreed-upon work, Woods posed as the owner of a real-estate company and fraudulently sold the homes to unsuspecting victim buyers. According to court documents, Woods used aliases with each victim of this scheme.

Woods elicited large downpayments from the victims and had the victims enter fraudulent contracts, requiring them to make monthly installment payments until the homes were paid in full. In total, Woods elicited $183,000 in down payments and monthly installments from various victims. Additionally, the victims also spent approximately $33,777 to remodel the homes, leading to a total actual loss of $216,777.

According to court documents, Woods attempted to victimize two additional individuals but the fraud was discovered before a downpayment was made. According to the victim declarations, this fraud — like the rental-equipment scheme — had a devastating financial impact on numerous lives. This fraud had a direct impact on multiple victims’ solvency; has caused substantial loss of retirement, education, or other savings; has caused substantial changes to employment and/or living arrangements; and has impacted victims’ ability to obtain credit.

Among the residential properties cited in court documents as fraudulently sold by Woods is a residence in Shawnee, Kan.

The intended loss of the two schemes totaled $2,229,177 while the actual loss of the schemes totaled $900,896.

For the rental-equipment scheme, the intended loss was calculated by adding the value of the stolen rental equipment, $999,077, to the amount the victim buyers paid the defendant, $188,100. The intended loss for the real-estate scheme was calculated by adding the amount paid by the victims for the downpayments, home upgrades, and/or monthly installment payments to the total unpaid amount owed under the fraudulent contracts for a total of $1,042,000.

The three counts of travel fraud to which Woods pleaded guilty are related to instances in which he caused his victims to travel across state lines as part of the fraud schemes.

During the schemes, Woods used multiple aliases, including Jeremy Ace, Jeremy Vaughn, Jeremy Brown, James Hanna, and Elvis John.

Woods has 31 prior felony convictions, including several fraud convictions that are relevant conduct in the two schemes in this case. When arrested in this case in May 2022, Woods was on felony probation in four separate cases in four separate Missouri counties and was on misdemeanor probation in Montgomery County, Kansas. Additionally, he has been convicted of 25 misdemeanors and has had his probation or parole revoked 15 times. He also has pending cases in four separate counties, including an active warrant out of Lyon County, Kansas, for escaping from custody.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599744375325.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;Woods from a 2020 arrest in Saline County" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Woods from a 2020 arrest in Saline County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City-area man was sentenced in federal court this week for two fraud schemes in which he sold unwitting victims rental equipment and real estate that did not belong to him, according to the United State's Attorney.Jeremy Ace Woods, 46, Independence, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs to 17 years in federal prison without parole. The court also ordered Woods to pay $798,021 in restitution to 48 victims and to forfeit to the government $336,150, which represents the proceeds he personally received from the charged conduct in this case.On Dec. 14, 2022, Woods pleaded guilty to three counts of travel fraud and two counts of wire fraud as part of a rental-equipment scheme and a real estate scheme that victimized at least 48 individuals or businesses.$1,187,177 Rental Equipment Fraud SchemeAs part of the rental-equipment scheme, Woods stole approximately 96 pieces of rental equipment valued at approximately $999,077 from 25 separate rental companies. He then sold at least 41 pieces of equipment to at least 15 victim buyers from across the Midwest, including buyers from Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. These victim buyers paid Woods a total of $188,100 for the stolen equipment.According to court documents, Woods used aliases and lies to enter into sexual relationships with multiple women and employment relationships with multiple men. He exploited these relationships by asking these individuals to rent equipment for him, thus acting as straw renters of the equipment — using their real names and banking information to obtain the equipment. Once the rental equipment was obtained, Woods — again, using various aliases — lined up buyers for the stolen equipment by posting the equipment for sale on Facebook Marketplace or similar websites.Through this scheme, the unwitting straw renters suffered damage to their credit scores and suffered financial losses; the victim rental companies suffered financial losses; and the victim buyers — many of whom were small business owners — sustained devastating financial losses when the equipment they purchased was ultimately returned to the appropriate rental companies. According to the victim declarations, this fraud had a direct impact on multiple victims’ financial solvency and caused substantial loss of retirement, education, or other savings.Among the rental equipment cited in court documents as being stolen then sold by Woods is a Boxer skid steer from Home Depot in Olathe, Kan., a Bobcat skid steer from United Rentals in Olathe, and a Toro Dingo TX 1000 compact utility loader from Colman Equipment in Smithville, Mo.As part of the relevant conduct in the scheme, Woods entered into a romantic relationship with a woman with an intellectual disability. Woods exploited this relationship by having the woman buy and rent property for him, including a truck, multiple trailers, and 12 smart phones. Additionally, Woods told the woman they were going to get married, and – based on those lies – used her money to purchase a $3,500 ring for himself.$1,042,000 Real Estate Fraud SchemeAs part of the real-estate scheme, Woods fraudulently sold 12 homes he did not own, extracting large down payments and monthly installment payments from unsuspecting victim buyers, from September 2021 to February 2022. The scheme involved total payments, made or intended, of over $1 million.In this scheme, Woods (through his companies, Ace’s Remediation and Lawn Service or Vaughns Property Management) solicited and received subcontracting jobs for maintenance tasks on homes going through the foreclosure process, many of which were owned by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development. Instead of honoring the contracts and performing the agreed-upon work, Woods posed as the owner of a real-estate company and fraudulently sold the homes to unsuspecting victim buyers. According to court documents, Woods used aliases with each victim of this scheme.Woods elicited large downpayments from the victims and had the victims enter fraudulent contracts, requiring them to make monthly installment payments until the homes were paid in full. In total, Woods elicited $183,000 in down payments and monthly installments from various victims. Additionally, the victims also spent approximately $33,777 to remodel the homes, leading to a total actual loss of $216,777.According to court documents, Woods attempted to victimize two additional individuals but the fraud was discovered before a downpayment was made. According to the victim declarations, this fraud — like the rental-equipment scheme — had a devastating financial impact on numerous lives. This fraud had a direct impact on multiple victims’ solvency; has caused substantial loss of retirement, education, or other savings; has caused substantial changes to employment and/or living arrangements; and has impacted victims’ ability to obtain credit.Among the residential properties cited in court documents as fraudulently sold by Woods is a residence in Shawnee, Kan.$2,229,177 Total LossesThe intended loss of the two schemes totaled $2,229,177 while the actual loss of the schemes totaled $900,896.For the rental-equipment scheme, the intended loss was calculated by adding the value of the stolen rental equipment, $999,077, to the amount the victim buyers paid the defendant, $188,100. The intended loss for the real-estate scheme was calculated by adding the amount paid by the victims for the downpayments, home upgrades, and/or monthly installment payments to the total unpaid amount owed under the fraudulent contracts for a total of $1,042,000.The three counts of travel fraud to which Woods pleaded guilty are related to instances in which he caused his victims to travel across state lines as part of the fraud schemes.During the schemes, Woods used multiple aliases, including Jeremy Ace, Jeremy Vaughn, Jeremy Brown, James Hanna, and Elvis John.Woods has 31 prior felony convictions, including several fraud convictions that are relevant conduct in the two schemes in this case. When arrested in this case in May 2022, Woods was on felony probation in four separate cases in four separate Missouri counties and was on misdemeanor probation in Montgomery County, Kansas. Additionally, he has been convicted of 25 misdemeanors and has had his probation or parole revoked 15 times. He also has pending cases in four separate counties, including an active warrant out of Lyon County, Kansas, for escaping from custody.

KC-area man sold real estate, rental equipment he did not own

With recently approved boosters available, health officials advise more shots

By RACHEL MIPRO,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/04/05/kansas-lawmakers-debate-definition-of-female-and-male-for-county-jails/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Doctors warn that colder months have already brought an uptick in COVID-19 cases, especially in the urban parts of the state, though numbers are still significantly lower than they were during the height of the pandemic.

During a Wednesday update on the state’s COVID-19 situation, doctors and health officials asked Kansans to take the new COVID-19 boosters, following approval from the Food and Drug Administration and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention of shots designed to target a strain that has become more prevalent.

The University of Kansas Health System reported treating 19 COVID-19 patients this week. Dana Hawkinson, director of infection prevention and control at the system, said the rate had increased in recent weeks, but last year’s numbers for this time frame had around 40 active cases.

“Hospitalizations have increased a little bit but nowhere near what we have seen in the past, and even the rate of change of the rate of that increase is pretty low or slow compared to other peaks and highs,” Hawkinson said.

Chakshu Gupta, chief medical officer at Liberty Hospital, reported the hospital had spent several weeks without any COVID-19 patients in the hospital. Since the beginning of September, the number has increased to an average of eight or 10 inpatients with COVID-19, and 25 employees have tested positive.

“Our test positivity rate had gone down to about 1% in the summer,” Gupta said. “It is now between 9 and 14%. The silver lining is that the illnesses have been less severe, and ICU admissions have been uncommon.”

In July, health organizations warned of a summer surge, in one of the first increases of COVID-19 hospitalizations seen this year. The CDC reported 8,035 new hospital admissions for the week ending July 22, marking a 12.1% increase compared to the week prior.

This month, national COVID-19 data from the week of Sept. 9 marked 20,538 new hospital admissions, with a 7.7% increase from the week prior.

Since the CDC stopped tracking cases of infection, hospitalizations are now the primary indicator of COVID-19 spread. New Kansas COVID-19 cases haven’t been widely documented by the state since the end of the federal COVID-19 emergency declaration in May.

Jennifer Schrimsher, infectious disease physician at LMH Health and public health officer for Douglas County, said Douglas County has been relatively free of new cases.

“COVID still exists,” Schrimsher said. “It’s still out there, it’s still causing severe illness, as does influenza. My focus with my patients right now is get your updated booster, get the flu vaccine when it’s available. I would like to have a nice, regular fall and winter respiratory illness season, as opposed to the past few years.”

Elizabeth Long, chief medical officer with Olathe Health, said her organization is focused on monitoring cases and preventative measures for staff and patients.

“We definitely had a dip over the summer months, and we just wanted to put this in our rearview mirror and say, ‘Hey, guess what COVID is over,’ ” Long said. “And unfortunately yesterday we had the highest number that we’ve had in several weeks, which was six.”

CDC data from August show 65.6% of Kansans, including 76.3% of adults, have completed a primary vaccination series for COVID-19. And 15.9% of Kansans, including 19.6% of adults, have received a booster shot.

<h2>With recently approved boosters available, health officials advise more shots</h2>By RACHEL MIPRO,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/04/05/kansas-lawmakers-debate-definition-of-female-and-male-for-county-jails/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Doctors warn that colder months have already brought an uptick in COVID-19 cases, especially in the urban parts of the state, though numbers are still significantly lower than they were during the height of the pandemic.During a Wednesday update on the state’s COVID-19 situation, doctors and health officials asked Kansans to take the new COVID-19 boosters, following approval from the Food and Drug Administration and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention of shots designed to target a strain that has become more prevalent.The University of Kansas Health System reported treating 19 COVID-19 patients this week. Dana Hawkinson, director of infection prevention and control at the system, said the rate had increased in recent weeks, but last year’s numbers for this time frame had around 40 active cases.“Hospitalizations have increased a little bit but nowhere near what we have seen in the past, and even the rate of change of the rate of that increase is pretty low or slow compared to other peaks and highs,” Hawkinson said.Chakshu Gupta, chief medical officer at Liberty Hospital, reported the hospital had spent several weeks without any COVID-19 patients in the hospital. Since the beginning of September, the number has increased to an average of eight or 10 inpatients with COVID-19, and 25 employees have tested positive.“Our test positivity rate had gone down to about 1% in the summer,” Gupta said. “It is now between 9 and 14%. The silver lining is that the illnesses have been less severe, and ICU admissions have been uncommon.”In July, health organizations warned of a summer surge, in one of the first increases of COVID-19 hospitalizations seen this year. The CDC reported 8,035 new hospital admissions for the week ending July 22, marking a 12.1% increase compared to the week prior.This month, national COVID-19 data from the week of Sept. 9 marked 20,538 new hospital admissions, with a 7.7% increase from the week prior.Since the CDC stopped tracking cases of infection, hospitalizations are now the primary indicator of COVID-19 spread. New Kansas COVID-19 cases haven’t been widely documented by the state since the end of the federal COVID-19 emergency declaration in May.Jennifer Schrimsher, infectious disease physician at LMH Health and public health officer for Douglas County, said Douglas County has been relatively free of new cases.“COVID still exists,” Schrimsher said. “It’s still out there, it’s still causing severe illness, as does influenza. My focus with my patients right now is get your updated booster, get the flu vaccine when it’s available. I would like to have a nice, regular fall and winter respiratory illness season, as opposed to the past few years.”Elizabeth Long, chief medical officer with Olathe Health, said her organization is focused on monitoring cases and preventative measures for staff and patients.“We definitely had a dip over the summer months, and we just wanted to put this in our rearview mirror and say, ‘Hey, guess what COVID is over,’ ” Long said. “And unfortunately yesterday we had the highest number that we’ve had in several weeks, which was six.”CDC data from August show 65.6% of Kansans, including 76.3% of adults, have completed a primary vaccination series for COVID-19. And 15.9% of Kansans, including 19.6% of adults, have received a booster shot.

Kansas doctors call for more vaccinations to dampen COVID-19 cases

BY:&nbsp;ARIANA FIGUEROA&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/03/30/u-s-judge-rules-insurers-dont-have-to-cover-many-free-preventive-health-services/">States Newsroom</a>

WASHINGTON — The White House announced the formation of an Office of Gun Violence Prevention that will help states and local governments as they implement a gun safety legislative package President Joe Biden signed into law last year.

(Click below to watch the announcement on gun safety)

Lacking additional action in Congress to curb gun violence, “the Office of Gun Violence Prevention along with the rest of my Administration will continue to do everything it can to combat the epidemic of gun violence that is tearing our families, our communities, and our country apart,” Biden said in a statement.

Following mass shootings in Buffalo, New York, and Uvalde, Texas, Congress&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://wisconsinexaminer.com/2022/06/24/congress-sends-biden-historic-gun-safety-legislation-with-gop-support/">passed the most comprehensive federal gun safety legislation</a>&nbsp;in nearly 30 years, known as the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act.

In Buffalo, a white supremacist targeted a Black neighborhood and killed 10 Black people in a grocery store. And in Uvalde, 19 children and two teachers were murdered, making it the second-deadliest mass shooting since the Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre in 2012.

There was a forman announcement of the office Friday in the Rose Garden that survivors of gun violence from Buffalo, Uvalde, Sandy Hook and other mass shootings are expected to attend, Stefanie Feldman, who will lead the office, said on a call with reporters.

Feldman said the office will be overseen by Vice President Kamala Harris, and that the office will also help coordinate support for communities impacted by gun violence.

“We know true freedom is not possible if people are not safe,” Harris said in a statement. “This epidemic of gun violence requires urgent leadership to end the fear and trauma that Americans experience every day.”

There have been 506 mass shootings this year alone,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.gunviolencearchive.org/">according to Gun Violence Archive</a>, an organization that tracks gun violence in the U.S.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695399420279.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;ARIANA FIGUEROA&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/03/30/u-s-judge-rules-insurers-dont-have-to-cover-many-free-preventive-health-services/">States Newsroom</a>WASHINGTON — The White House announced the formation of an Office of Gun Violence Prevention that will help states and local governments as they implement a gun safety legislative package President Joe Biden signed into law last year.(Click below to watch the announcement on gun safety)<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FWhiteHouse%2Fvideos%2F631953852418302%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=62" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Lacking additional action in Congress to curb gun violence, “the Office of Gun Violence Prevention along with the rest of my Administration will continue to do everything it can to combat the epidemic of gun violence that is tearing our families, our communities, and our country apart,” Biden said in a statement.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Because you marched, organized, and voted, we passed the most significant gun safety legislation in 30 years. But let&#39;s be clear — we have more work to do. Today, I am proud to share that I will oversee the first-ever White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention. <a href="https://t.co/i16sAr98Yz">pic.twitter.com/i16sAr98Yz</a>&mdash; Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) <a href="https://twitter.com/VP/status/1705221226413662583?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Following mass shootings in Buffalo, New York, and Uvalde, Texas, Congress&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://wisconsinexaminer.com/2022/06/24/congress-sends-biden-historic-gun-safety-legislation-with-gop-support/">passed the most comprehensive federal gun safety legislation</a>&nbsp;in nearly 30 years, known as the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act.In Buffalo, a white supremacist targeted a Black neighborhood and killed 10 Black people in a grocery store. And in Uvalde, 19 children and two teachers were murdered, making it the second-deadliest mass shooting since the Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre in 2012.There was a forman announcement of the office Friday in the Rose Garden that survivors of gun violence from Buffalo, Uvalde, Sandy Hook and other mass shootings are expected to attend, Stefanie Feldman, who will lead the office, said on a call with reporters.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695435453101.png" alt="White House photo" />
 <figcaption>White House photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Feldman said the office will be overseen by Vice President Kamala Harris, and that the office will also help coordinate support for communities impacted by gun violence.“We know true freedom is not possible if people are not safe,” Harris said in a statement. “This epidemic of gun violence requires urgent leadership to end the fear and trauma that Americans experience every day.”There have been 506 mass shootings this year alone,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.gunviolencearchive.org/">according to Gun Violence Archive</a>, an organization that tracks gun violence in the U.S.

🎥Biden administration creates gun violence prevention office

By A.J Dome,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/04/06/grieving-moms-plea-to-kansas-lawmakers-do-something-this-epidemic-is-killing-our-kids/">Kansas Reflector</a>

Three people in Kansas have died from West Nile virus infections this year, according to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.

KDHE officials issued a warning for a high risk of the mosquito-borne disease on Sep. 13. The warning covers the entire state except for the southeast corner, which is under a moderate risk.

In addition to the three deaths, officials said in a statement that 17 other people reported suffering from neurological issues after being infected with the virus.

Kansas officials have recorded 22 cases of humans being infected so far this year. The state Department of Agriculture also reported seven cases of West Nile infections in horses in Barber, Butler, Douglas, Ford and Pratt counties.

Stephen Higgs, director of the Biosecurity Research Institute at Kansas State University in Manhattan, has a background in studying mosquito-borne diseases. He’s been involved in West Nile virus research since 1999. He said the 22 cases reported this year marks the highest number of human West Nile cases in Kansas since 2018.

“There’ve been more than 2.5 million people infected in the U.S. since 1999,” Higgs said, “and almost 3,000 deaths from it since then.”

In total, 702 West Nile cases have been confirmed in Kansas since 1999. In a statement, state public health veterinarian Erin Petro said Kansas is in the middle of the peak timeframe for West Nile virus transmission.

“With more widespread virus activity this year than in the previous several years, it’s important to take mosquito bite prevention measures to protect yourself, your family, and livestock against all mosquito-borne illnesses,” Petro said.

There is no human vaccine against West Nile, Higgs said, and scientists still aren’t sure exactly how the virus made its way into the U.S. According to the World Health Organization, West Nile was first isolated in a woman in the West Nile district of Uganda in Africa in 1937. The first known West Nile outbreak in humans began in 1999 in New York.

An annual West Nile vaccine exists for horses, Higgs said. People can only prevent exposure to mosquitos that may potentially carry the virus.

“The recommendation is that you wear DEET repellant when working outside,” Higgs said.

Removing stagnant bodies of water around a property is also a good method of mosquito prevention. Wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants is additionally recommended.

Higgs said at least 80% of people infected with West Nile don’t feel it. Others may feel symptoms like fever and muscle aches that can mirror other ailments. Severe cases of West Nile infection can cause swelling of the brain, which can lead to paralysis and other long-term neurological issues, or death. Horses infected with West Nile can exhibit symptoms such as depression, loss of appetite, and incoordination.

A notable recent case of West Nile affected Kansas City Chiefs Radio Network broadcaster Art Hains, who returned to the job this fall after being infected with the virus last year.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.news-leader.com/story/sports/college/msu/2023/09/22/missouri-state-kansas-city-chiefs-radio-broadcaster-art-hains-west-nile-virus-recovery/70835264007/">According to the Springfield News-Leader</a>, Hains was hospitalized in critical condition in September 2022. The newspaper reported Hains, who also serves as the voice of Missouri State University athletics, lost mobility in his legs and his breathing was impacted.

Hains&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ky3.com/video/2023/05/25/hall-fame-broadcaster-art-hains-returns-springfield-continue-rehab/">told reporters with KY3-TV</a>&nbsp;in Springfield in May that he doesn’t remember a mosquito bite, and that he’s improved enough through rehabilitation to return to broadcasting, albeit from a wheelchair.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694639188464.png" alt="On Sept. 13,&nbsp; Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) issued a high-risk warning for West Nile virus infections (WNV) for all regions of the state other than the southeast region" />
 <figcaption>On Sept. 13,&nbsp; Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) issued a high-risk warning for West Nile virus infections (WNV) for all regions of the state other than the southeast region</figcaption>
 </figure>By A.J Dome,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/04/06/grieving-moms-plea-to-kansas-lawmakers-do-something-this-epidemic-is-killing-our-kids/">Kansas Reflector</a>Three people in Kansas have died from West Nile virus infections this year, according to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.KDHE officials issued a warning for a high risk of the mosquito-borne disease on Sep. 13. The warning covers the entire state except for the southeast corner, which is under a moderate risk.In addition to the three deaths, officials said in a statement that 17 other people reported suffering from neurological issues after being infected with the virus.Kansas officials have recorded 22 cases of humans being infected so far this year. The state Department of Agriculture also reported seven cases of West Nile infections in horses in Barber, Butler, Douglas, Ford and Pratt counties.Stephen Higgs, director of the Biosecurity Research Institute at Kansas State University in Manhattan, has a background in studying mosquito-borne diseases. He’s been involved in West Nile virus research since 1999. He said the 22 cases reported this year marks the highest number of human West Nile cases in Kansas since 2018.“There’ve been more than 2.5 million people infected in the U.S. since 1999,” Higgs said, “and almost 3,000 deaths from it since then.”In total, 702 West Nile cases have been confirmed in Kansas since 1999. In a statement, state public health veterinarian Erin Petro said Kansas is in the middle of the peak timeframe for West Nile virus transmission.“With more widespread virus activity this year than in the previous several years, it’s important to take mosquito bite prevention measures to protect yourself, your family, and livestock against all mosquito-borne illnesses,” Petro said.There is no human vaccine against West Nile, Higgs said, and scientists still aren’t sure exactly how the virus made its way into the U.S. According to the World Health Organization, West Nile was first isolated in a woman in the West Nile district of Uganda in Africa in 1937. The first known West Nile outbreak in humans began in 1999 in New York.An annual West Nile vaccine exists for horses, Higgs said. People can only prevent exposure to mosquitos that may potentially carry the virus.“The recommendation is that you wear DEET repellant when working outside,” Higgs said.Removing stagnant bodies of water around a property is also a good method of mosquito prevention. Wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants is additionally recommended.Higgs said at least 80% of people infected with West Nile don’t feel it. Others may feel symptoms like fever and muscle aches that can mirror other ailments. Severe cases of West Nile infection can cause swelling of the brain, which can lead to paralysis and other long-term neurological issues, or death. Horses infected with West Nile can exhibit symptoms such as depression, loss of appetite, and incoordination.A notable recent case of West Nile affected Kansas City Chiefs Radio Network broadcaster Art Hains, who returned to the job this fall after being infected with the virus last year.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.news-leader.com/story/sports/college/msu/2023/09/22/missouri-state-kansas-city-chiefs-radio-broadcaster-art-hains-west-nile-virus-recovery/70835264007/">According to the Springfield News-Leader</a>, Hains was hospitalized in critical condition in September 2022. The newspaper reported Hains, who also serves as the voice of Missouri State University athletics, lost mobility in his legs and his breathing was impacted.Hains&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ky3.com/video/2023/05/25/hall-fame-broadcaster-art-hains-returns-springfield-continue-rehab/">told reporters with KY3-TV</a>&nbsp;in Springfield in May that he doesn’t remember a mosquito bite, and that he’s improved enough through rehabilitation to return to broadcasting, albeit from a wheelchair.

Kansas reports 3 deaths from West Nile virus as cases reach 5-year high

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating the death of a woman who had only been in custody since Tuesday.

Just after 1030 a.m. Friday, an inmate was found unresponsive by her cellmate in Pod 21 of the Sedgwick County Detention Facility, according Sheriff's Lt. Nathan Gibbs.

Detention Staff and Medical Staff immediately began cardiopulmonary resuscitation, until emergency medical services (E.M.S.) arrived.

The inmate was treated by E.M.S. and transported to a local hospital for treatment. Just before noon, she was pronounced deceased, according to Gibbs. Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Investigations and the Kansas Bureau of Investigations (K.B.I.) were contacted. Sheriff Investigations processed the scene.&nbsp; The preliminary cause of death is unknown pending an autopsy.

The inmate had been in the custody of the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office since September 19, on requested charges of for two counts of contempt of court through the City of Wichita. 

The sheriff's office did not release the inmate's name at the request of the family. This is the sixth in-custody death this year.

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating the death of a woman who had only been in custody since Tuesday.Just after 1030 a.m. Friday, an inmate was found unresponsive by her cellmate in Pod 21 of the Sedgwick County Detention Facility, according Sheriff's Lt. Nathan Gibbs.Detention Staff and Medical Staff immediately began cardiopulmonary resuscitation, until emergency medical services (E.M.S.) arrived.The inmate was treated by E.M.S. and transported to a local hospital for treatment. Just before noon, she was pronounced deceased, according to Gibbs. Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Investigations and the Kansas Bureau of Investigations (K.B.I.) were contacted. Sheriff Investigations processed the scene.&nbsp; The preliminary cause of death is unknown pending an autopsy.The inmate had been in the custody of the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office since September 19, on requested charges of for two counts of contempt of court through the City of Wichita. The sheriff's office did not release the inmate's name at the request of the family. This is the sixth in-custody death this year.

Woman jailed in Kansas Tuesday died on Friday

The U.S. on Friday&nbsp;<a href="https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3534283/biden-administration-announces-additional-security-assistance-for-ukraine/">announced it will send an additional security assistance package</a>&nbsp;for Ukraine valued at up to $325 million as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy concluded his second visit to Washington since Russia launched its unprovoked invasion.

The package includes additional air defense equipment, artillery rounds, antitank weapons and other equipment to meet Ukraine's urgent needs on the battlefield to counter Russia's ongoing war of aggression. &nbsp;&nbsp;

President Joe Biden unveiled the aid package after meeting with Zelenskyy at the White House. &nbsp;

"We're committed to help Ukraine build a force capable of ensuring Ukraine's long-term security, capable of deterring future threats against sovereignty, territorial integrity and freedom, which are underway now," Biden said. "Because that's what this is all about —&nbsp;the future, the future of freedom. America can never, will never walk away from that."&nbsp;

The latest round of assistance marks the 47th drawdown of equipment from Defense Department inventories for Ukraine since August 2021 and reflects the United States' enduring commitment in the face of Russian aggression.

Zelenskyy's meeting with Biden capped the Ukrainian president's daylong tour through Washington, which also included discussions with lawmakers on Capitol Hill and a meeting with defense officials at the Pentagon.

In his remarks ahead of the closed-door meeting at the White House, Zelenskyy said that he came to Washington to "strengthen Ukraine's position to defend our children, our families, our homes, freedom and democracy in the world." &nbsp;

"It's good that our countries are really, truly allies," he said before expressing his appreciation for the "vital assistance provided by the United States to Ukraine to combat Russia['s] terrorism."&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III reaffirmed the United States' unwavering support for Ukraine during his meeting with the Ukrainian president at the Pentagon.

The two discussed the outcome of the most recent meeting of more than 50 countries at the Ukraine Defense Contact Group in Germany earlier this week. Austin also provided Zelenskyy with an update on U.S. security assistance to meet Ukraine's most urgent battlefield needs.

"The secretary gave his personal commitment to work with our allies and partners to ensure they have what they need," said Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder. &nbsp;

Describing the meeting as warm and engaging, Ryder said it also provided them with an opportunity to discuss Ukraine's longer term capability requirements "and how to support them in the future in terms of deterring Russia."&nbsp;

Following the discussion, Zelenskyy and Ukraine's first lady, Olena Zelenska, joined Austin and Army Gen. Mark A. Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, for a wreath laying ceremony at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.defense.gov/Multimedia/Experience/Pentagon-Memorial/">National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial</a>.

"It was very clear that President Zelenskyy very much appreciates the support that the United States, the people of the United States have provided to Ukraine," Ryder said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695389171060.png" alt="Zelensykk met with Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III -Photo Department of Defense" />
 <figcaption>Zelensykk met with Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III -Photo Department of Defense</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;Joseph Clark&nbsp;, DOD NewsThe U.S. on Friday&nbsp;<a href="https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3534283/biden-administration-announces-additional-security-assistance-for-ukraine/">announced it will send an additional security assistance package</a>&nbsp;for Ukraine valued at up to $325 million as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy concluded his second visit to Washington since Russia launched its unprovoked invasion.The package includes additional air defense equipment, artillery rounds, antitank weapons and other equipment to meet Ukraine's urgent needs on the battlefield to counter Russia's ongoing war of aggression. &nbsp;&nbsp;President Joe Biden unveiled the aid package after meeting with Zelenskyy at the White House. &nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695389397315.png" alt="Congress is considering&nbsp; a White House request of $24 billion in supplemental aid to Ukraine-White House photo" />
 <figcaption>Congress is considering&nbsp; a White House request of $24 billion in supplemental aid to Ukraine-White House photo</figcaption>
 </figure>"We're committed to help Ukraine build a force capable of ensuring Ukraine's long-term security, capable of deterring future threats against sovereignty, territorial integrity and freedom, which are underway now," Biden said. "Because that's what this is all about —&nbsp;the future, the future of freedom. America can never, will never walk away from that."&nbsp;The latest round of assistance marks the 47th drawdown of equipment from Defense Department inventories for Ukraine since August 2021 and reflects the United States' enduring commitment in the face of Russian aggression.Zelenskyy's meeting with Biden capped the Ukrainian president's daylong tour through Washington, which also included discussions with lawmakers on Capitol Hill and a meeting with defense officials at the Pentagon.In his remarks ahead of the closed-door meeting at the White House, Zelenskyy said that he came to Washington to "strengthen Ukraine's position to defend our children, our families, our homes, freedom and democracy in the world." &nbsp;"It's good that our countries are really, truly allies," he said before expressing his appreciation for the "vital assistance provided by the United States to Ukraine to combat Russia['s] terrorism."&nbsp;Earlier in the day, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III reaffirmed the United States' unwavering support for Ukraine during his meeting with the Ukrainian president at the Pentagon.The two discussed the outcome of the most recent meeting of more than 50 countries at the Ukraine Defense Contact Group in Germany earlier this week. Austin also provided Zelenskyy with an update on U.S. security assistance to meet Ukraine's most urgent battlefield needs."The secretary gave his personal commitment to work with our allies and partners to ensure they have what they need," said Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder. &nbsp;Describing the meeting as warm and engaging, Ryder said it also provided them with an opportunity to discuss Ukraine's longer term capability requirements "and how to support them in the future in terms of deterring Russia."&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695389307080.png" alt="photo Defense Department" />
 <figcaption>photo Defense Department</figcaption>
 </figure>Following the discussion, Zelenskyy and Ukraine's first lady, Olena Zelenska, joined Austin and Army Gen. Mark A. Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, for a wreath laying ceremony at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.defense.gov/Multimedia/Experience/Pentagon-Memorial/">National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial</a>."It was very clear that President Zelenskyy very much appreciates the support that the United States, the people of the United States have provided to Ukraine," Ryder said.

U.S. sending another $325M arms package to Ukraine

GRANT COUNTY —Law enforcement and officials with USD 214 Ulysses are investigating a gun at the middle school in Ulysses.

School district officials notified the Ulysses police department of a staff member in possession of a gun at Kepley Middle School, 113 N Colorado Street in Ulysses, according to Police Chief Ron Vagher.

Police responded to the school and worked with the cooperation of USD 214 officials to identify, interview and take a person of interest into custody.&nbsp; Police also recovered a firearm.&nbsp;&nbsp;

This incident is separate from a reported school threat on Thursday. Ulysses police are investigating both.&nbsp; Police will release the name of the person of interest after formal charges are filed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695436576691.png" alt="- Kepley Middle School-Google image" />
 <figcaption>- Kepley Middle School-Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>GRANT COUNTY —Law enforcement and officials with USD 214 Ulysses are investigating a gun at the middle school in Ulysses.School district officials notified the Ulysses police department of a staff member in possession of a gun at Kepley Middle School, 113 N Colorado Street in Ulysses, according to Police Chief Ron Vagher.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FUlyPubSchl%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0E2rG3oCsQvEgw5L1Y3YGLVqHT5EbvVYdpRWXSwaZUtHdD1ZjdqgEDj7PYLkvdNhTl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="317" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>Police responded to the school and worked with the cooperation of USD 214 officials to identify, interview and take a person of interest into custody.&nbsp; Police also recovered a firearm.&nbsp;&nbsp;This incident is separate from a reported school threat on Thursday. Ulysses police are investigating both.&nbsp; Police will release the name of the person of interest after formal charges are filed.

Police: Kan. middle school staff member had gun at school

MARSHALL COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 4:30p.m. Friday in Marshall County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Kenworth semi driven by John Wayne Kiser, 46, Shawnee Mission, struck a 2021 Subaru Outback driven by Denise M. Torrey, 63, Axtell, who was attempting a left turn onto Kansas 110 from U.S. 36 two miles south of Axtell.&nbsp; 

A westbound 2008 Chevy Silverado driven by Timothy E. Winkler, 39, Sabetha, then struck the Subaru.

Torrey was pronounced dead at the scene EMS transported Winkler to Bryan Trauma in Lincoln, Nebraska. EMS transported a passenger in the pickup identified as Margaret C. Winkler, 59, Sabetha, to Stormont Vail. Kiser was not injured. A juvenile was present in the Subaru; juvenile record is protected data, according to the KHP. All were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

MARSHALL COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 4:30p.m. Friday in Marshall County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Kenworth semi driven by John Wayne Kiser, 46, Shawnee Mission, struck a 2021 Subaru Outback driven by Denise M. Torrey, 63, Axtell, who was attempting a left turn onto Kansas 110 from U.S. 36 two miles south of Axtell.&nbsp; A westbound 2008 Chevy Silverado driven by Timothy E. Winkler, 39, Sabetha, then struck the Subaru.Torrey was pronounced dead at the scene EMS transported Winkler to Bryan Trauma in Lincoln, Nebraska. EMS transported a passenger in the pickup identified as Margaret C. Winkler, 59, Sabetha, to Stormont Vail. Kiser was not injured. A juvenile was present in the Subaru; juvenile record is protected data, according to the KHP. All were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kansas woman dead after 3-vehicle semi crash

KANSAS CITY – The owner of a Kansas City pawn shop was sentenced in federal court this week for engaging in a $744,000 scheme to fence more than 14,500 stolen items and sell them on eBay, according to the United State's Attorney.

Dennis G. Russell, 66, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs to 20 months in federal prison without parole. The court also ordered Russell to pay a $100,000 fine and to forfeit to the government $744,222, which represents the proceeds obtained from the conspiracy.

On March 24, 2023, Russell pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to transport stolen property across state lines. During the scheme, Russell was one of two members of the board of directors of Rison of KC, Inc., which does business as National Pawn at 6223 E. Truman Road in Kansas City, Mo. Rison of KC is also charged with the same offense but has entered into a deferred prosecution agreement with the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

Russell admitted that he participated in a nearly five-year-long conspiracy from Jan. 1, 2017, to July 27, 2021, to purchase items he knew had been stolen from various retail locations in the Kansas City metropolitan area, then sell those items on eBay. Russell shipped approximately 14,672 stolen items across state lines, resulting in gross proceeds of approximately $744,222.

Multiple thieves, known as “boosters,” stole items from Target, Walmart, Home Depot, Lowe’s, CVS, Walgreens, and other retail locations. They sold such stolen items as robot vacuum cleaners, textbooks, Roku and Google Chromecast television streaming devices, and Crest Whitestrips to Russell at a fraction of their retail price. Russell then posted the stolen items for sale on eBay, using one of two accounts, and shipped them to purchasers in numerous other states.

According to court documents, Russell continued his scheme during the coronavirus pandemic. In fact, 2020 was his most profitable year, selling 7,089 stolen items on eBay and receiving $324,842 in gross proceeds. In one instance, from Feb. 20 to April 2, 2020, two boosters — who were working in tandem — provided him with 641 stolen items.

Russell only stopped his illegal conduct after a federal search warrant was executed at National Pawn and he was served with a target letter. On Oct. 21, 2021, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at National Pawn and seized 3,400 items, which Russell and National Pawn do not contest were stolen property and which have been forfeited to the government.

Rison of KC has entered into a deferred prosecution agreement with the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Under the terms of that agreement, the business admits to the criminal conspiracy and accepts responsibility for the acts of its officers and employees. The government will defer prosecution of Rison of KC for that conduct during the three-year term of the agreement and will not continue with prosecution if the business fully complies with its obligations under the agreement, which include:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695258613507.png" alt="Google image" />
 <figcaption>Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY – The owner of a Kansas City pawn shop was sentenced in federal court this week for engaging in a $744,000 scheme to fence more than 14,500 stolen items and sell them on eBay, according to the United State's Attorney.Dennis G. Russell, 66, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs to 20 months in federal prison without parole. The court also ordered Russell to pay a $100,000 fine and to forfeit to the government $744,222, which represents the proceeds obtained from the conspiracy.On March 24, 2023, Russell pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to transport stolen property across state lines. During the scheme, Russell was one of two members of the board of directors of Rison of KC, Inc., which does business as National Pawn at 6223 E. Truman Road in Kansas City, Mo. Rison of KC is also charged with the same offense but has entered into a deferred prosecution agreement with the U.S. Attorney’s Office.Russell admitted that he participated in a nearly five-year-long conspiracy from Jan. 1, 2017, to July 27, 2021, to purchase items he knew had been stolen from various retail locations in the Kansas City metropolitan area, then sell those items on eBay. Russell shipped approximately 14,672 stolen items across state lines, resulting in gross proceeds of approximately $744,222.Multiple thieves, known as “boosters,” stole items from Target, Walmart, Home Depot, Lowe’s, CVS, Walgreens, and other retail locations. They sold such stolen items as robot vacuum cleaners, textbooks, Roku and Google Chromecast television streaming devices, and Crest Whitestrips to Russell at a fraction of their retail price. Russell then posted the stolen items for sale on eBay, using one of two accounts, and shipped them to purchasers in numerous other states.According to court documents, Russell continued his scheme during the coronavirus pandemic. In fact, 2020 was his most profitable year, selling 7,089 stolen items on eBay and receiving $324,842 in gross proceeds. In one instance, from Feb. 20 to April 2, 2020, two boosters — who were working in tandem — provided him with 641 stolen items.Russell only stopped his illegal conduct after a federal search warrant was executed at National Pawn and he was served with a target letter. On Oct. 21, 2021, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at National Pawn and seized 3,400 items, which Russell and National Pawn do not contest were stolen property and which have been forfeited to the government.Rison of KC has entered into a deferred prosecution agreement with the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Under the terms of that agreement, the business admits to the criminal conspiracy and accepts responsibility for the acts of its officers and employees. The government will defer prosecution of Rison of KC for that conduct during the three-year term of the agreement and will not continue with prosecution if the business fully complies with its obligations under the agreement, which include:<ul>
 <li>National Pawn must keep a current list of all employees, all financial accounts, and all auction websites it utilizes;</li><li>National Pawn must obtain and retain a verifiable third-party receipt for any new product purchased;</li><li>Russell must not work at or profit from National Pawn.</li>
 </ul>

KC pawn shop owner sold thousands of stolen items on eBay

KANSAS CITY (AP) —The United Auto Workers union expanded its strike against major carmakers Friday, walking out of 38 parts-distribution centers operated by General Motors and Jeep and Ram owner Stellantis in 20 states but sparing Ford from further shutdowns.

President Joe Biden said on X, formerly known as Twitter, that he will visit Michigan on Tuesday “to join the picket line and stand in solidarity with the men and women of UAW as they fight for a fair share of the value they helped create.”

Ford avoided additional strikes because the company has met some of the union’s demands during negotiations over the past week, UAW President Shawn Fain said during an online presentation to union members.

“We’ve made some real progress at Ford,” Fain said. “We still have serious issues to work through, but we do want to recognize that Ford is showing that they are serious about reaching a deal. At GM and Stellantis, it’s a different story."

Fain said GM and Stellantis, the successor to Fiat Chrysler, have rejected the union’s proposals for cost-of-living increases, profit sharing and job security, and “are going to need some serious pushing.”

GM said it has presented five “historic” offers covering wages and job security.

“Today’s strike escalation by the UAW’s top leadership is unnecessary,” the company said in a statement. “The UAW leadership is manipulating the bargaining process for their own personal agendas.”

Stellantis said it made “a very competitive offer” Thursday that would pay all current full-time hourly employees between $80,000 and $96,000 within four years and seven months and allow “workforce stability” during that time. The company said the UAW has not responded.

Instead of targeting more production plants Friday, the UAW went after centers that distribute parts to car dealer service departments. That could quickly drag consumers into the middle of the fight, if dealers run short of parts.

The UAW said the new walkouts will affect 5,600 workers on top of the nearly 13,000 who began strikes last week at three Ford, GM and Stellantis assembly plants. Those original strikes will continue, the union said.

The UAW is continuing to avoid targeting plants that make Detroit’s bestsellers, such as the Ford F-150 and Stellantis’ Ram pickups, which represent outsize shares of the companies’ revenue and profit. That represents a union strategy to gradually increase the pain of a strike on the automakers. However, the industry’s supply chain is so integrated that even hitting lower-profile plants cuts into production.

Deutsche Bank analysts estimated Friday that GM, Ford and Stellantis have lost production of more than 16,000 vehicles since the strike started last week at a Ford assembly plant near Detroit, a GM factory in Wentzville, Missouri, and a Jeep plant run by Stellantis in Toledo, Ohio. Anderson Economic Group, a consulting firm in Michigan that tracks the industry, estimated Friday that the three big automakers have suffered economic losses of more than $1.6 billion.

The carmakers and some of their suppliers have laid off about 6,000 workers in moves they say are related to the strike. GM shut down a factory in Kansas that relies on parts stamped at the Wentzville plant.

Still, the impact is not yet being felt on car lots around the country — it will probably take a few weeks before the strike causes a significant shortage of new vehicles, according to analysts.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/car-prices-auto-workers-strike-98905c8e0fcf633d21a1f83183f9fd49">Prices could rise sooner</a>, however, if the prospect of a prolonged strike triggers panic buying.

In bargaining, the union is pointing to the carmakers' huge recent profits and high CEO pay as it seeks wage increases of about 36% over four years. The companies have offered a little over half that amount.

“We aren’t getting paid what we are supposed to. I feel like our CEO is getting all our money,” said Antione Turner, who walked off his job Friday at a GM customer-care center in Belleville, Michigan.

Turner said after working there 10 years, he makes $31 an hour. On the same picket line, Shelton Matthews, who started at GM three years ago, makes $20 an hour because the company’s tiered wage structure mean lower pay for new workers.

“Pay disparity is the key issue" in the strike, Matthews said. “You’re doing, if not harder work, the same work as the person next to you with significantly less pay.”

The companies say they can’t afford to meet the union’s demands because they need to invest profits in a costly transition&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/automakers-fast-charging-network-electric-vehicles-cbb6c0102345c0db38f2baf96db742da">from gas-powered cars to electric vehicles</a>. They have dismissed out of hand some of the demands, including 40 hours' pay for a 32-hour work week.

Fain said that Ford has agreed to some union proposals, including the restoration of cost-of-living wage increases that were dropped several years ago, better profit-sharing and improved job security.

A Ford spokesman, Daniel Barbossa, said the company “is working diligently with the UAW to reach a deal that rewards our workforce and enables Ford to invest in a vibrant and growing future."

“Although we are making progress in some areas, we still have significant gaps to close on the key economic issues,” he said.

Rather than bargain with one company and set a pattern for contracts at the other two, the UAW has been negotiating simultaneously with all three Detroit giants. By favoring Ford after a week of talks, the UAW moved closer to its traditional bargaining pattern: getting the best deal it can from one company, then expecting the others to match it.

Fain had promised all week to escalate the strike if there wasn't significant progress in negotiations. Targeting the parts-distributions centers could inflict quick pain on GM and Stellantis, said Daniel Ives, an analyst with Wedbush Securities.

“The UAW is going for the gut punch as this strike gets a lot nastier,” Ives said. He called it “a very strategic and risky poker move by the UAW.”

Other industry observers said that dragging current owners of GM and Stellantis vehicles into the fray will backfire on the union.

“People who have a car that they need to repair will not be sympathetic to the UAW when they can't get the car fixed and can't get to work,” said Eric Gordon, a business professor at the University of Michigan.

Even with Friday's expansion, the strikes involve only a little over 10% of the UAW's 146,000 members. That will make the union's $825 million strike fund last longer, as most members will keep working under the expired contract and pay into the fund. However, the longer the strike lasts, the greater the risk of dissension between workers who will keep collecting full paychecks and those getting $500 a week from the union.

Fain believes that most of the public is on the union's side. He invited anyone who supports the union — “all the way up to the president of the United States” — to join strikers on the picket lines.

Fain had previously seemed lukewarm at best about a Biden visit, saying that the strike was the union’s fight, not the president’s.

Biden's visit Tuesday would come one day before the leading contender for the Republican nomination, former President Donald Trump, plans to speak to union members in Detroit.

Associated Press journalists Christopher Megerian in Washington and Corey Williams in Belleville, Michigan, contributed to this report.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695067603080.png" alt="Striking auto workers in Missouri-photo UAW" />
 <figcaption>Striking auto workers in Missouri-photo UAW</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) —The United Auto Workers union expanded its strike against major carmakers Friday, walking out of 38 parts-distribution centers operated by General Motors and Jeep and Ram owner Stellantis in 20 states but sparing Ford from further shutdowns.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Tuesday, I’ll go to Michigan to join the picket line and stand in solidarity with the men and women of UAW as they fight for a fair share of the value they helped create. It’s time for a win-win agreement that keeps American auto manufacturing thriving with well-paid UAW jobs.&mdash; President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1705325183697932561?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>President Joe Biden said on X, formerly known as Twitter, that he will visit Michigan on Tuesday “to join the picket line and stand in solidarity with the men and women of UAW as they fight for a fair share of the value they helped create.”Ford avoided additional strikes because the company has met some of the union’s demands during negotiations over the past week, UAW President Shawn Fain said during an online presentation to union members.“We’ve made some real progress at Ford,” Fain said. “We still have serious issues to work through, but we do want to recognize that Ford is showing that they are serious about reaching a deal. At GM and Stellantis, it’s a different story."Fain said GM and Stellantis, the successor to Fiat Chrysler, have rejected the union’s proposals for cost-of-living increases, profit sharing and job security, and “are going to need some serious pushing.”GM said it has presented five “historic” offers covering wages and job security.“Today’s strike escalation by the UAW’s top leadership is unnecessary,” the company said in a statement. “The UAW leadership is manipulating the bargaining process for their own personal agendas.”Stellantis said it made “a very competitive offer” Thursday that would pay all current full-time hourly employees between $80,000 and $96,000 within four years and seven months and allow “workforce stability” during that time. The company said the UAW has not responded.Instead of targeting more production plants Friday, the UAW went after centers that distribute parts to car dealer service departments. That could quickly drag consumers into the middle of the fight, if dealers run short of parts.The UAW said the new walkouts will affect 5,600 workers on top of the nearly 13,000 who began strikes last week at three Ford, GM and Stellantis assembly plants. Those original strikes will continue, the union said.The UAW is continuing to avoid targeting plants that make Detroit’s bestsellers, such as the Ford F-150 and Stellantis’ Ram pickups, which represent outsize shares of the companies’ revenue and profit. That represents a union strategy to gradually increase the pain of a strike on the automakers. However, the industry’s supply chain is so integrated that even hitting lower-profile plants cuts into production.Deutsche Bank analysts estimated Friday that GM, Ford and Stellantis have lost production of more than 16,000 vehicles since the strike started last week at a Ford assembly plant near Detroit, a GM factory in Wentzville, Missouri, and a Jeep plant run by Stellantis in Toledo, Ohio. Anderson Economic Group, a consulting firm in Michigan that tracks the industry, estimated Friday that the three big automakers have suffered economic losses of more than $1.6 billion.The carmakers and some of their suppliers have laid off about 6,000 workers in moves they say are related to the strike. GM shut down a factory in Kansas that relies on parts stamped at the Wentzville plant.Still, the impact is not yet being felt on car lots around the country — it will probably take a few weeks before the strike causes a significant shortage of new vehicles, according to analysts.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/car-prices-auto-workers-strike-98905c8e0fcf633d21a1f83183f9fd49">Prices could rise sooner</a>, however, if the prospect of a prolonged strike triggers panic buying.In bargaining, the union is pointing to the carmakers' huge recent profits and high CEO pay as it seeks wage increases of about 36% over four years. The companies have offered a little over half that amount.“We aren’t getting paid what we are supposed to. I feel like our CEO is getting all our money,” said Antione Turner, who walked off his job Friday at a GM customer-care center in Belleville, Michigan.Turner said after working there 10 years, he makes $31 an hour. On the same picket line, Shelton Matthews, who started at GM three years ago, makes $20 an hour because the company’s tiered wage structure mean lower pay for new workers.“Pay disparity is the key issue" in the strike, Matthews said. “You’re doing, if not harder work, the same work as the person next to you with significantly less pay.”The companies say they can’t afford to meet the union’s demands because they need to invest profits in a costly transition&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/automakers-fast-charging-network-electric-vehicles-cbb6c0102345c0db38f2baf96db742da">from gas-powered cars to electric vehicles</a>. They have dismissed out of hand some of the demands, including 40 hours' pay for a 32-hour work week.Fain said that Ford has agreed to some union proposals, including the restoration of cost-of-living wage increases that were dropped several years ago, better profit-sharing and improved job security.A Ford spokesman, Daniel Barbossa, said the company “is working diligently with the UAW to reach a deal that rewards our workforce and enables Ford to invest in a vibrant and growing future."“Although we are making progress in some areas, we still have significant gaps to close on the key economic issues,” he said.Rather than bargain with one company and set a pattern for contracts at the other two, the UAW has been negotiating simultaneously with all three Detroit giants. By favoring Ford after a week of talks, the UAW moved closer to its traditional bargaining pattern: getting the best deal it can from one company, then expecting the others to match it.Fain had promised all week to escalate the strike if there wasn't significant progress in negotiations. Targeting the parts-distributions centers could inflict quick pain on GM and Stellantis, said Daniel Ives, an analyst with Wedbush Securities.“The UAW is going for the gut punch as this strike gets a lot nastier,” Ives said. He called it “a very strategic and risky poker move by the UAW.”Other industry observers said that dragging current owners of GM and Stellantis vehicles into the fray will backfire on the union.“People who have a car that they need to repair will not be sympathetic to the UAW when they can't get the car fixed and can't get to work,” said Eric Gordon, a business professor at the University of Michigan.Even with Friday's expansion, the strikes involve only a little over 10% of the UAW's 146,000 members. That will make the union's $825 million strike fund last longer, as most members will keep working under the expired contract and pay into the fund. However, the longer the strike lasts, the greater the risk of dissension between workers who will keep collecting full paychecks and those getting $500 a week from the union.Fain believes that most of the public is on the union's side. He invited anyone who supports the union — “all the way up to the president of the United States” — to join strikers on the picket lines.Fain had previously seemed lukewarm at best about a Biden visit, saying that the strike was the union’s fight, not the president’s.Biden's visit Tuesday would come one day before the leading contender for the Republican nomination, former President Donald Trump, plans to speak to union members in Detroit.___Associated Press journalists Christopher Megerian in Washington and Corey Williams in Belleville, Michigan, contributed to this report.

President Biden says he will join auto workers on the picket line 

LYON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal Kansas house fire.

Just before 4 a.m. Friday, Lyon County Emergency Communications received a report of house fire at 1993 Road G, according to Sheriff Jeff Cope.

First responders found the one-story home engulfed in flames.&nbsp;

The bodies of an unidentified man and woman were discovered deceased in the residence. The joint investigation into the cause of the fire and the identification of the deceased in being conducted by the Emporia Fire Department, Kansas State Fire Marshalls office and the Lyon County Sheriffs office.

 The Lyon County Highway Department assisted with debris removal to facilitate the safe recovery of the bodies. The structure was a total loss.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695410567169.png" alt="Photo by Chuck Samples photo courtesy KVOE" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Chuck Samples photo courtesy KVOE</figcaption>
 </figure>LYON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal Kansas house fire.Just before 4 a.m. Friday, Lyon County Emergency Communications received a report of house fire at 1993 Road G, according to Sheriff Jeff Cope.First responders found the one-story home engulfed in flames.&nbsp;The bodies of an unidentified man and woman were discovered deceased in the residence. The joint investigation into the cause of the fire and the identification of the deceased in being conducted by the Emporia Fire Department, Kansas State Fire Marshalls office and the Lyon County Sheriffs office. The Lyon County Highway Department assisted with debris removal to facilitate the safe recovery of the bodies. The structure was a total loss.

Sheriff: Man and woman dead in Kansas house fire

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating the deadly shooting of a 48-year-old Kansas woman and have made an arrest.

Just before 11:30p.m. Thursday, police were dispatched to a reported shooting in the area of 800 S. Mission in Wichita, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.

First responders located two shooting victims including 48-year-old Adraine Kenney of Wichita who was pronounced dead at the scene. EMS transported a 22-year-old woman&nbsp;to a local hospital with critical injuries.

Investigators and officers identified and apprehended the 30-year-old male suspect without incident following a brief standoff in the 600 block of S. Mission. 

Preliminary investigation revealed that all three individuals were involved in a disturbance which led to the suspect shooting the two victims. All parties involved in this incident are acquainted with each other and there are no outstanding suspects.

The suspect faces charges of 1st Degree Murder, Attempted 1st Degree Murder, Aggravated Battery, Aggravated Assault, Aggravated Burglary , and Kidnapping, according to Rebolledo.

This case will be presented to the District Attorney’s office. Police will identify the suspect when&nbsp;formal charges are filed, according to Rebolledo.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695400801814.png" alt="First responders at the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>First responders at the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating the deadly shooting of a 48-year-old Kansas woman and have made an arrest.Just before 11:30p.m. Thursday, police were dispatched to a reported shooting in the area of 800 S. Mission in Wichita, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.First responders located two shooting victims including 48-year-old Adraine Kenney of Wichita who was pronounced dead at the scene. EMS transported a 22-year-old woman&nbsp;to a local hospital with critical injuries.Investigators and officers identified and apprehended the 30-year-old male suspect without incident following a brief standoff in the 600 block of S. Mission. Preliminary investigation revealed that all three individuals were involved in a disturbance which led to the suspect shooting the two victims. All parties involved in this incident are acquainted with each other and there are no outstanding suspects.The suspect faces charges of 1st Degree Murder, Attempted 1st Degree Murder, Aggravated Battery, Aggravated Assault, Aggravated Burglary , and Kidnapping, according to Rebolledo.This case will be presented to the District Attorney’s office. Police will identify the suspect when&nbsp;formal charges are filed, according to Rebolledo.

48-year-old Kansas woman dead, another injured in shooting

JACUMBA HOT SPRINGS, Calif. (AP) — A group of migrants from China surrendered to a Border Patrol agent in remote Southern California as gusts of wind drowned the hum of high-voltage power lines, joining others from Ecuador, Brazil, Colombia and elsewhere in a desert campsite with shelters made from tree branches.

Their arrival Wednesday was another sign that agents have become overwhelmed in recent days by asylum-seekers on parts of the U.S. border with Mexico. In tiny Eagle Pass, Texas, nearly 6,000 migrants crossed from Mexico in to the U.S. in two days, prompting authorities to close one of the town's two official border crossings so those agents could instead help with the influx. Border crossings have closed recently for similar reasons in San Diego and El Paso, Texas.

After a dip in illegal crossings that followed new asylum restrictions in May, President Joe Biden's administration is again on its heels. Democratic mayors and governors are seeking more relief for hosting asylum-seekers and Republicans are seizing on the issue ahead of 2024 elections.

The Homeland Security Department said Wednesday it would grant Temporary Protected Status to an estimated 472,000 Venezuelans who were in the U.S. on July 31, easing paths to work authorization. That's in addition to 242,700 Venezuelans who already had qualified for temporary status.

The administration is also sending 800 active-duty military troops to the border, adding to 2,500 National Guard members there. It's expanding border holding facilities by 3,250 people to nearly 23,000, and extending home surveillance nationwide for families awaiting initial asylum screenings.

The administration renewed pressure — and blame — on Congress, which has long failed to agree on comprehensive changes to the nation's immigration system. The Biden administration is now asking Congress for $4 billion in emergency funding.

Homeland Security said in a statement that it was "using the limited tools it has available to secure the border and build a safe, orderly, and humane immigration system."

Theresa Cardinal Brown, the Bipartisan Policy Center's senior advisor for immigration and border policy, said it's normal to see a dip in illegal crossings after changes like those imposed in May, but that is usually short-lived once migrants see how things play out.

"People see what happened to the last group of people that tried and they're like, 'Oh, well maybe it's not as harsh as they say,'" Brown said.

An increase in families arriving at the border led to unacceptable conditions in two of the busiest Border Patrol sector, a court-appointed monitor reported to a federal court last week. Dr. Paul H. Wise said children as young as 8 years old were separated from parents during processing in South Texas, a practice that has been mainly used for boys 13 to 17.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection said it was reviewing Wise's report, noting limited, temporary separations may occur during processing for safety reasons but they are nothing like the long-term separations under former President Donald Trump. Wise said even short-term separation can have "lasting, harmful effects."

In Eagle Pass, a town of 28,000 people, about 2,700 migrants crossed Tuesday and 3,000 Wednesday, according to Maverick County Sheriff Tom Schmerber. Mayor Rolando Salinas declared the city a disaster area on Tuesday.

U.S. authorities closed a bridge and international railway in Eagle Pass on Wednesday to redirect staff. Union Pacific Railroad Co. said Thursday that thousands of rail cars cross the border there daily.

CBP told business leaders they have no estimate of when rail traffic would resume in Eagle Pass or when U.S.-bound commercial truck traffic would reopen at a bridge in El Paso. Traffic slowed at other border crossings.

"All along the border, we're experiencing large numbers of migrants, so you will see slowdowns and disruptions" at border crossings, said Dennis McKenzie, CBP deputy director for cargo and conveyance security. "It's all hands on deck."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695343466970.png" alt="Photo Texas Department of Public Safety" />
 <figcaption>Photo Texas Department of Public Safety</figcaption>
 </figure>By ELLIOT SPAGAT&nbsp;JACUMBA HOT SPRINGS, Calif. (AP) — A group of migrants from China surrendered to a Border Patrol agent in remote Southern California as gusts of wind drowned the hum of high-voltage power lines, joining others from Ecuador, Brazil, Colombia and elsewhere in a desert campsite with shelters made from tree branches.Their arrival Wednesday was another sign that agents have become overwhelmed in recent days by asylum-seekers on parts of the U.S. border with Mexico. In tiny Eagle Pass, Texas, nearly 6,000 migrants crossed from Mexico in to the U.S. in two days, prompting authorities to close one of the town's two official border crossings so those agents could instead help with the influx. Border crossings have closed recently for similar reasons in San Diego and El Paso, Texas.After a dip in illegal crossings that followed new asylum restrictions in May, President Joe Biden's administration is again on its heels. Democratic mayors and governors are seeking more relief for hosting asylum-seekers and Republicans are seizing on the issue ahead of 2024 elections.The Homeland Security Department said Wednesday it would grant Temporary Protected Status to an estimated 472,000 Venezuelans who were in the U.S. on July 31, easing paths to work authorization. That's in addition to 242,700 Venezuelans who already had qualified for temporary status.The administration is also sending 800 active-duty military troops to the border, adding to 2,500 National Guard members there. It's expanding border holding facilities by 3,250 people to nearly 23,000, and extending home surveillance nationwide for families awaiting initial asylum screenings.The administration renewed pressure — and blame — on Congress, which has long failed to agree on comprehensive changes to the nation's immigration system. The Biden administration is now asking Congress for $4 billion in emergency funding.Homeland Security said in a statement that it was "using the limited tools it has available to secure the border and build a safe, orderly, and humane immigration system."Theresa Cardinal Brown, the Bipartisan Policy Center's senior advisor for immigration and border policy, said it's normal to see a dip in illegal crossings after changes like those imposed in May, but that is usually short-lived once migrants see how things play out."People see what happened to the last group of people that tried and they're like, 'Oh, well maybe it's not as harsh as they say,'" Brown said.An increase in families arriving at the border led to unacceptable conditions in two of the busiest Border Patrol sector, a court-appointed monitor reported to a federal court last week. Dr. Paul H. Wise said children as young as 8 years old were separated from parents during processing in South Texas, a practice that has been mainly used for boys 13 to 17.U.S. Customs and Border Protection said it was reviewing Wise's report, noting limited, temporary separations may occur during processing for safety reasons but they are nothing like the long-term separations under former President Donald Trump. Wise said even short-term separation can have "lasting, harmful effects."In Eagle Pass, a town of 28,000 people, about 2,700 migrants crossed Tuesday and 3,000 Wednesday, according to Maverick County Sheriff Tom Schmerber. Mayor Rolando Salinas declared the city a disaster area on Tuesday.U.S. authorities closed a bridge and international railway in Eagle Pass on Wednesday to redirect staff. Union Pacific Railroad Co. said Thursday that thousands of rail cars cross the border there daily.CBP told business leaders they have no estimate of when rail traffic would resume in Eagle Pass or when U.S.-bound commercial truck traffic would reopen at a bridge in El Paso. Traffic slowed at other border crossings."All along the border, we're experiencing large numbers of migrants, so you will see slowdowns and disruptions" at border crossings, said Dennis McKenzie, CBP deputy director for cargo and conveyance security. "It's all hands on deck."In San Diego, a pedestrian crossing has been closed since Sept. 14 to direct staff to an area where migrants from Cameroon to Colombia are waiting between a double-layer border wall in San Diego. Volunteers are handing the migrants food and bottled water while they wait to be processed.Near Jacumba Hot Springs, a town of less than 1,000 people with a small hotel and general store amid boulder-strewn mountains an hour's drive east of San Diego, migrants camps began forming last week for the first time since May.Smugglers drive migrants to a spot in Mexico where the border wall ends. One of three camps in the Jacumba Valley is about a half-hour walk on a gravel road used almost exclusively by border agents. On Wednesday, none had stayed longer than one night, occupying tents that were left behind by others.The Border Patrol gives migrants colored wristbands marking their arrival date to determine who gets shuttled first to a processing location. Campfires and juniper shrub shield migrants from evening chills. Some climbed atop boulders hoping to get a cellphone signal.Angel Sisa, 40, left Ecuador's coastal region with his wife and two children, ages 15 and 13, selling his general store to escape death threats from criminals demanding monthly payments. The Sisa family paid smugglers to take them by plane and bus until they reached a hotel in Tecate, the nearest town in Mexico from the roadside drop where they crossed. They hope to settle in Minneapolis with family members who left Ecuador about a year ago.Carlos Andres Vasquez, 37, flew from his home country of Colombia to Mexico City as a tourist and paid a smuggler $800 to be driven from Tijuana on a road filled with bumps and potholes before arriving near where they would cross into the U.S."They treated like cattle, like animals," Vasquez said. "They put 20, 18 of us in a van, women and children in front and we went in back."He said he and other South Americans walked to the campsite Tuesday under a "very pleasant" Border Patrol agent's watch. Vasquez, whose father was killed and who left Colombia because of death threats, plans to settle with a friend in Holyoke, Massachusetts, and save money for his wife and children, ages 7 and 2, to join him.___Associated Press writers Valerie Gonzalez in McAllen, Texas, Colleen Long in Washington and Josh Funk in Omaha, Nebraska, contributed.