KANSAS CITY (AP) — A Kansas City man has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for the killing more than five years ago of a woman whose body was found stuffed in a trash bag.

Kevin Hurley, 62, was sentenced Monday for the 2015 beating death of 42-year-old Brandy Helbock-Castaneda. A judge found Hurley guilty in December of second-degree murder in the case.

Helbock-Castaneda’s sister reported her missing on Dec. 5, 2015. Her body was found in the trash bag on Jan. 8, 2016. Hurley was arrested in March 2018 after DNA taken from the victim's ankle matched his, according to court documents.

After Hurley denied knowing Castaneda, further testing showed DNA from a rope around the victim’s hips matched Hurley’s or someone in his paternal lineage. Hurley had been paroled in 2013 after serving nearly 30 years for first-degree robbery and murder convictions in Jackson County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608239168107.png" alt="Hurley photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Hurley photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — A Kansas City man has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for the killing more than five years ago of a woman whose body was found stuffed in a trash bag.Kevin Hurley, 62, was sentenced Monday for the 2015 beating death of 42-year-old Brandy Helbock-Castaneda. A judge found Hurley guilty in December of second-degree murder in the case.Helbock-Castaneda’s sister reported her missing on Dec. 5, 2015. Her body was found in the trash bag on Jan. 8, 2016. Hurley was arrested in March 2018 after DNA taken from the victim's ankle matched his, according to court documents.After Hurley denied knowing Castaneda, further testing showed DNA from a rope around the victim’s hips matched Hurley’s or someone in his paternal lineage. Hurley had been paroled in 2013 after serving nearly 30 years for first-degree robbery and murder convictions in Jackson County.

Man sentenced for death of woman whose body was stuffed in trash bag

WASHINGTON&nbsp;– U.S. Senator Jerry Moran Thursday released the following statement after receiving news from the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency that the remains of Father Emil Kapaun were identified:

“This evening I was notified that the remains of Marion County-native Father Emil Kapaun, a priest of the Diocese of Wichita, have been identified. Father Kapaun served as an Army Chaplain during WWII and the Korean War, and was taken as a Prisoner of War in 1951. He continued to minister to Americans as a POW before passing away on May 23, 1951.

“In 2011, I introduced legislation to bestow Father Kapaun with the Presidential Medal of Honor, which was awarded in 2013. In 1993, Pope John Paul II declared Father Kapaun a Servant of God, the first step toward sainthood. I am glad that his family has finally been granted closure after Father Kapaun’s selfless service to our nation.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614907151742.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON&nbsp;– U.S. Senator Jerry Moran Thursday released the following statement after receiving news from the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency that the remains of Father Emil Kapaun were identified:“This evening I was notified that the remains of Marion County-native Father Emil Kapaun, a priest of the Diocese of Wichita, have been identified. Father Kapaun served as an Army Chaplain during WWII and the Korean War, and was taken as a Prisoner of War in 1951. He continued to minister to Americans as a POW before passing away on May 23, 1951.“In 2011, I introduced legislation to bestow Father Kapaun with the Presidential Medal of Honor, which was awarded in 2013. In 1993, Pope John Paul II declared Father Kapaun a Servant of God, the first step toward sainthood. I am glad that his family has finally been granted closure after Father Kapaun’s selfless service to our nation.”

 Moran: Remains of Father Emil Kapaun Identified

PITTSBURG, Kan. (AP) — A “suspicious device” that was found near the Pittsburg State University campus contained a “small amount of incendiary components,” police said.

The device was found Wednesday in a block adjacent to the campus. The Kansas State Highway Patrol’s Hazardous Device Unit was called and left with the device Wednesday evening after it was safely dismantled.

Pieces of the device will be sent to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation’s Forensic Laboratories for further examination of trace evidence, police said in a news release. Police did not provide a description of the device.

No suspects have been developed and the investigation continues.

Pittsburg State officials on Thursday thanked law enforcement for their work said in a tweet they “wanted to follow up and say we’re all clear on this situation.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614900903033.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation Thursday photo courtesy KOAM TV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation Thursday photo courtesy KOAM TV</figcaption>
 </figure>PITTSBURG, Kan. (AP) — A “suspicious device” that was found near the Pittsburg State University campus contained a “small amount of incendiary components,” police said.The device was found Wednesday in a block adjacent to the campus. The Kansas State Highway Patrol’s Hazardous Device Unit was called and left with the device Wednesday evening after it was safely dismantled.Pieces of the device will be sent to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation’s Forensic Laboratories for further examination of trace evidence, police said in a news release. Police did not provide a description of the device.No suspects have been developed and the investigation continues.Pittsburg State officials on Thursday thanked law enforcement for their work said in a tweet they “wanted to follow up and say we’re all clear on this situation.”

Suspicious device removed from Pittsburg State campus

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<figure>
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2 charged in case of modified shotgun that injured Kan. officers

TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly today announced her administration’s plan to vaccinate meatpacking plant workers in Kansas. Under the plan, all meatpacking workers who want to be vaccinated will receive the first dose within the next two weeks.

“Throughout this pandemic, meatpacking plant workers have stepped up to successfully maintain the food supply chain,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“We owe them our gratitude for keeping food on the shelves and on the plates of families across our state, our nation, and the world.”

“Since the pandemic began, many of us have anxiously awaited this day…a day where our meat processing employees would have access to a vaccine that would protect them, their coworkers, and their families,”&nbsp;Secretary Mike Beam, Kansas Department of Agriculture, said.

Much like Governor Kelly’s “Back to School” plan to vaccinate Kansas teachers and school staff, counties with meatpacking plants will receive additional vaccine doses specifically earmarked for meatpacking workers, in addition to the doses counties already receive from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE).

KDHE is coordinating this approach with local health departments and directly with the meatpacking plants.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614899240296.png" alt="Governor Laura Kelly held a zoom meeting on the plan Thursday.&nbsp; "Kansas meatpacking workers risked their lives to feed our state, our nation, and our world. I was proud to announce that by the end of next week, we will complete first doses for every meatpacking worker in Kansas."" />
 <figcaption>Governor Laura Kelly held a zoom meeting on the plan Thursday.&nbsp; "Kansas meatpacking workers risked their lives to feed our state, our nation, and our world. I was proud to announce that by the end of next week, we will complete first doses for every meatpacking worker in Kansas."</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly today announced her administration’s plan to vaccinate meatpacking plant workers in Kansas. Under the plan, all meatpacking workers who want to be vaccinated will receive the first dose within the next two weeks.“Throughout this pandemic, meatpacking plant workers have stepped up to successfully maintain the food supply chain,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“We owe them our gratitude for keeping food on the shelves and on the plates of families across our state, our nation, and the world.”“Since the pandemic began, many of us have anxiously awaited this day…a day where our meat processing employees would have access to a vaccine that would protect them, their coworkers, and their families,”&nbsp;Secretary Mike Beam, Kansas Department of Agriculture, said.Much like Governor Kelly’s “Back to School” plan to vaccinate Kansas teachers and school staff, counties with meatpacking plants will receive additional vaccine doses specifically earmarked for meatpacking workers, in addition to the doses counties already receive from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE).KDHE is coordinating this approach with local health departments and directly with the meatpacking plants.

Plan will vaccinate Kansas meatpacking plant workers

KANSAS CITY —The mayor of Missouri’s largest city has asked the federal government to make sure the state's urban residents get better access to coronavirus vaccines.

In a letter to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas wrote wrote that the federal government has plans to set up 18 mass vaccination sites around the country, but none of them are in Missouri. He asked that Kansas City be added to the list.

On Thursday, Missouri Governor Mike Parson announced plans to get more vaccine to Kansas City.&nbsp; "While vaccine distribution is based on population throughout each region, we do recognize that some Missourians are less interested in receiving a vaccine than others," Parson wrote on twitter.

"Vaccine interest is often highest in urban populations, so starting next week, we will begin transitioning mass vaccination teams to accommodate more events in Region A (Kansas City region) and Region C (St. Louis region). We expect a full transition by April 1."

Both mass and targeted vaccination events hosted by the state will begin utilizing the Johnson and Johnson vaccine as supply allows, according to Parson. This will help increase the scale and efficiency of these events as vaccination teams will not need to return for boosters.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614891206146.png" alt="Missouri Governor Mike Parson with members of the National Guard during a vaccination event on Thursday" />
 <figcaption>Missouri Governor Mike Parson with members of the National Guard during a vaccination event on Thursday</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —The mayor of Missouri’s largest city has asked the federal government to make sure the state's urban residents get better access to coronavirus vaccines.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614807036253.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>In a letter to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas wrote wrote that the federal government has plans to set up 18 mass vaccination sites around the country, but none of them are in Missouri. He asked that Kansas City be added to the list.On Thursday, Missouri Governor Mike Parson announced plans to get more vaccine to Kansas City.&nbsp; "While vaccine distribution is based on population throughout each region, we do recognize that some Missourians are less interested in receiving a vaccine than others," Parson wrote on twitter."Vaccine interest is often highest in urban populations, so starting next week, we will begin transitioning mass vaccination teams to accommodate more events in Region A (Kansas City region) and Region C (St. Louis region). We expect a full transition by April 1."Both mass and targeted vaccination events hosted by the state will begin utilizing the Johnson and Johnson vaccine as supply allows, according to Parson. This will help increase the scale and efficiency of these events as vaccination teams will not need to return for boosters.

Governor: More mass vaccination teams coming to Kansas City

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A bill that would require high school students to pass a civics test to graduate has won initial approval in the Kansas House.

(Click below to listen to the House debate about a civics test)

Lawmakers voted Wednesday to advance the bill despite opposition from the Kansas State Board of Education, which said the bill encroaches on its constitutional authority to set graduation requirements. The bill faces a final House vote before going to the Senate.

The legislation would require students to pass one or more tests consisting of 60 questions from the 128-question U.S. citizenship test. The bill does not set a passing grade, and students would be able to take the test multiple times. Valley Center Republican Rep. Steve Huebert, the bill’s chief proponent, said teachers could decide what constitutes passing.

The test would also require high schools to submit an annual report to the state board showing how students are doing on the tests.

Supporters say the test would give students basic knowledge to become engaged citizens. Nineteen states require high school graduates to take a civics test, according to the Kansas Department of Legislative Research.

The bill faces pushback from education groups, including the Kansas National Education Association, which says that students are already getting an education in civics in government and history classes.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A bill that would require high school students to pass a civics test to graduate has won initial approval in the Kansas House.(Click below to listen to the House debate about a civics test)<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4QAIh32JLJ0?start=17474" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Lawmakers voted Wednesday to advance the bill despite opposition from the Kansas State Board of Education, which said the bill encroaches on its constitutional authority to set graduation requirements. The bill faces a final House vote before going to the Senate.The legislation would require students to pass one or more tests consisting of 60 questions from the 128-question U.S. citizenship test. The bill does not set a passing grade, and students would be able to take the test multiple times. Valley Center Republican Rep. Steve Huebert, the bill’s chief proponent, said teachers could decide what constitutes passing.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614884863187.png" alt="Valley Center Republican Rep. Steve Huebert, the bill’s chief proponent, said teachers could decide what constitutes passing." />
 <figcaption>Valley Center Republican Rep. Steve Huebert, the bill’s chief proponent, said teachers could decide what constitutes passing.</figcaption>
 </figure>The test would also require high schools to submit an annual report to the state board showing how students are doing on the tests.Supporters say the test would give students basic knowledge to become engaged citizens. Nineteen states require high school graduates to take a civics test, according to the Kansas Department of Legislative Research.The bill faces pushback from education groups, including the Kansas National Education Association, which says that students are already getting an education in civics in government and history classes.

🎥  Kan. House gives initial approval to civics test for graduation

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal shooting in the backyard of a home during a small gathering in Wichita have arrested&nbsp;41-year-old Michael Swinney, according to officer Charley Davidson.

Just before 1a.m. Wednesday,&nbsp; police responded to a home in the 2400 Block of North Sunny Lane in Wichita, according to&nbsp;Captain Jason Stephens.&nbsp; In the backyard of that location, police located 22-year-old Jacob Kalese with several gunshot wounds.&nbsp; EMS transported him to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.

The investigation revealed Kalese, his girlfriend and Swinney were at a small gathering at the home with several other individuals.&nbsp; A disturbance occurred between Swinney and Kalese, multiple shots were fired and&nbsp; Swinney fled the scene.

Through the investigation, investigators learned of Swinney’s involvement and he was arrested Wednesday afternoon at a home in the 100 block of South Young in Wichita without incident, according to Davidson.

Swinney is being held on requested charges of first-degree murder, an arrest and detain order through the Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC), and outstanding warrants, according to Davidson.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614870081716.png" alt="Swinney has numerous convictions that include aggravated assault, aggravated robbery, criminal discharge of a firearm, criminal possession of a firearm, violation of the offender registration act and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections- photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Swinney has numerous convictions that include aggravated assault, aggravated robbery, criminal discharge of a firearm, criminal possession of a firearm, violation of the offender registration act and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections- photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal shooting in the backyard of a home during a small gathering in Wichita have arrested&nbsp;41-year-old Michael Swinney, according to officer Charley Davidson.Just before 1a.m. Wednesday,&nbsp; police responded to a home in the 2400 Block of North Sunny Lane in Wichita, according to&nbsp;Captain Jason Stephens.&nbsp; In the backyard of that location, police located 22-year-old Jacob Kalese with several gunshot wounds.&nbsp; EMS transported him to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614789091458.png" alt="Police on the scene of the Wednesday morning shooting investigation photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the Wednesday morning shooting investigation photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>The investigation revealed Kalese, his girlfriend and Swinney were at a small gathering at the home with several other individuals.&nbsp; A disturbance occurred between Swinney and Kalese, multiple shots were fired and&nbsp; Swinney fled the scene.Through the investigation, investigators learned of Swinney’s involvement and he was arrested Wednesday afternoon at a home in the 100 block of South Young in Wichita without incident, according to Davidson.Swinney is being held on requested charges of first-degree murder, an arrest and detain order through the Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC), and outstanding warrants, according to Davidson.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Police: Kan. felon accused of murder during backyard gathering 

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — A man who injured a police officer after intentionally ramming through a security gate at a Koch family home in Wichita has been sentenced to three years of probation.

Aron James White, 42, was sentenced last week for injuring the officer. The Koch family&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/c2846888934241e090451162a927ae2c">did not pursue charges</a>&nbsp;after the January 2019 incident, which caused $20,000 damage to the gate and $10,000 in ruined landscape.

Court records say White rammed the gate after a security guard refuse to let him enter. He then hit a patrol car used by officer Atlee Vogt, who suffered bruising and minor burns when the airbag deployed.

White was arrested when he hit a tree on the property.

Investigators said at the time that White may have been under the influence of drugs. He had no known connection to the Koch property and didn’t live in the area.

Records show Chase Koch, the son of billionaire businessman Charles Koch, lived at the property at the time of the incident.

White pleaded guilty in January to one count of reckless aggravated battery. He would face a 32-month sentence in jail if he violates probation. He also must pay Vogt’s outstanding medical expenses.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614875335597.png" alt="White photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>White photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — A man who injured a police officer after intentionally ramming through a security gate at a Koch family home in Wichita has been sentenced to three years of probation.Aron James White, 42, was sentenced last week for injuring the officer. The Koch family&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/c2846888934241e090451162a927ae2c">did not pursue charges</a>&nbsp;after the January 2019 incident, which caused $20,000 damage to the gate and $10,000 in ruined landscape.Court records say White rammed the gate after a security guard refuse to let him enter. He then hit a patrol car used by officer Atlee Vogt, who suffered bruising and minor burns when the airbag deployed.White was arrested when he hit a tree on the property.Investigators said at the time that White may have been under the influence of drugs. He had no known connection to the Koch property and didn’t live in the area.Records show Chase Koch, the son of billionaire businessman Charles Koch, lived at the property at the time of the incident.White pleaded guilty in January to one count of reckless aggravated battery. He would face a 32-month sentence in jail if he violates probation. He also must pay Vogt’s outstanding medical expenses.

Kan. man who injured officer, rammed gate at Koch home sentenced

WASHINGTON — Law enforcement was on high alert Thursday around the U.S. Capitol after intelligence uncovered a “possible plot” by a militia group to storm the iconic building yet again, two months after a mob of Donald Trump supporters smashed through windows and doors to try to stop Congress from certifying now-President Joe Biden's victory.

The threat appears to be connected to a far-right conspiracy theory, mainly promoted by supporters of QAnon, that former President Trump will rise again to power on March 4 and that thousands will come to Washington, D.C., to try to remove Democrats from office. March 4 was the original presidential inauguration day until 1933, when it was moved to Jan. 20.

Online chatter identified by authorities included discussions among members of the Three Percenters, an anti-government militia group, concerning possible plots against the Capitol on Thursday, according to two law enforcement officials who were not authorized to speak publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity. Members of the Three Percenters were among the extremists who stormed the Capitol on Jan. 6.

In a media release, the United States Capitol Police Department said they are&nbsp; aware of and prepared for any potential threats towards members of Congress or towards the Capitol complex. We have obtained intelligence that shows a possible plot to breach the Capitol by an identified militia group on Thursday, March 4. We have already made significant security upgrades to include establishing a physical structure and increasing manpower to ensure the protection of Congress, the public and our police officers.

"Our Department is working with our local, state, and federal partners to stop any threats to the Capitol. We are taking the intelligence seriously. Due to the sensitive nature of this information, we cannot provide additional details at this time."

The threat came as the Capitol police and other law enforcement agencies were taking heat from Congress in contentious hearings this week on their poor handling of the Jan. 6 riot. Police were ill-prepared for the mass of Trump supporters in tactical gear, some armed, and it took hours for National Guard reinforcements to come.

By then, rioters had broken and smashed their way into the building and roamed the halls for hours, stalling Congress' certification effort temporarily and sending lawmakers into hiding.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614337301435.png" alt="Fence around the U.S. Capitol-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Fence around the U.S. Capitol-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON — Law enforcement was on high alert Thursday around the U.S. Capitol after intelligence uncovered a “possible plot” by a militia group to storm the iconic building yet again, two months after a mob of Donald Trump supporters smashed through windows and doors to try to stop Congress from certifying now-President Joe Biden's victory.The threat appears to be connected to a far-right conspiracy theory, mainly promoted by supporters of QAnon, that former President Trump will rise again to power on March 4 and that thousands will come to Washington, D.C., to try to remove Democrats from office. March 4 was the original presidential inauguration day until 1933, when it was moved to Jan. 20.Online chatter identified by authorities included discussions among members of the Three Percenters, an anti-government militia group, concerning possible plots against the Capitol on Thursday, according to two law enforcement officials who were not authorized to speak publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity. Members of the Three Percenters were among the extremists who stormed the Capitol on Jan. 6.In a media release, the United States Capitol Police Department said they are&nbsp; aware of and prepared for any potential threats towards members of Congress or towards the Capitol complex. We have obtained intelligence that shows a possible plot to breach the Capitol by an identified militia group on Thursday, March 4. We have already made significant security upgrades to include establishing a physical structure and increasing manpower to ensure the protection of Congress, the public and our police officers."Our Department is working with our local, state, and federal partners to stop any threats to the Capitol. We are taking the intelligence seriously. Due to the sensitive nature of this information, we cannot provide additional details at this time."The threat came as the Capitol police and other law enforcement agencies were taking heat from Congress in contentious hearings this week on their poor handling of the Jan. 6 riot. Police were ill-prepared for the mass of Trump supporters in tactical gear, some armed, and it took hours for National Guard reinforcements to come.By then, rioters had broken and smashed their way into the building and roamed the halls for hours, stalling Congress' certification effort temporarily and sending lawmakers into hiding.

Police uncover 'possible plot by militia' to storm the capitol

WASHINGTON (AP) — House Democrats passed sweeping voting and ethics legislation over unanimous Republican opposition, advancing to the Senate what would be the largest overhaul of the U.S. election law in at least a generation.

House Resolution 1, which touches on virtually every aspect of the electoral process, was approved Wednesday night on a near party-line 220-210 vote. It would restrict&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/54daa625511445969fee66696f7979c2">partisan gerrymandering</a>&nbsp;of congressional districts, strike down hurdles to voting and bring transparency to a murky campaign finance system that allows wealthy donors to anonymously bankroll political causes.

The bill is a powerful counterweight to voting rights restrictions advancing in Republican-controlled statehouses across the country in the wake of Donald Trump’s repeated false claims of a stolen 2020 election. Yet it faces an uncertain fate in the Democratic-controlled Senate, where it has little chance of passing without changes to procedural rules that currently allow Republicans to block it.

The stakes in the outcome are monumental, cutting to the foundational idea that one person equals one vote, and carrying with it the potential to shape election outcomes for years to come. It also offers a test of how hard President Joe Biden and his party are willing to fight for their priorities, as well as those of their voters.

This bill “will put a stop at the voter suppression that we’re seeing debated right now,” said Rep. Nikema Williams, a new congresswoman who represents the Georgia district that deceased voting rights champion John Lewis held for years. “This bill is the ‘Good Trouble’ he fought for his entire life.”

To Republicans, however, it would give license to unwanted federal interference in states’ authority to conduct their own elections — ultimately benefiting Democrats through higher turnout, most notably among minorities.

“Democrats want to use their razor-thin majority not to pass bills to earn voters’ trust, but to ensure they don’t lose more seats in the next election,” House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy said from the House floor Tuesday.

The measure has been a priority for Democrats since they won their House majority in 2018. But it has taken on added urgency in the wake of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-2020-ap-fact-check-joe-biden-donald-trump-technology-49a24edd6d10888dbad61689c24b05a5">Trump’s false claims</a>, which incited the deadly storming of the U.S. Capitol in January.

Courts and even Trump’s last attorney general, William Barr, found his claims about the election to be without merit. But, spurred on by those lies, state lawmakers across the U.S. have filed more than 200 bills in 43 states that would limit ballot access, according to a tally kept by the Brennan Center for Justice at New York University.

In Iowa, the legislature voted to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/legislature-iowa-city-iowa-state-elections-coronavirus-pandemic-70884a8ce4834a87fcede7b81979d016">cut absentee and in-person early voting,</a>&nbsp;while preventing local elections officials from setting up additional locations to make early voting easier. In Georgia, the House on Monday voted for legislation&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/senate-elections-bills-legislation-elections-georgia-842d9ad16a78901322f4b952f6c0d8dd">requiring identification to vote by mail</a>&nbsp;that would also allow counties to cancel early in-person voting on Sundays, when many&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-us-news-race-and-ethnicity-stacey-abrams-georgia-93f7d957172f59968571e7d45874a814">Black voters</a>&nbsp;cast ballots after church.

On Tuesday, the Supreme Court appeared ready to uphold voting restrictions in Arizona, which could make it harder to challenge state election laws in the future.

When asked why proponents sought to uphold the Arizona laws, which limit who can turn in absentee ballots and enable ballots to be thrown out if they are cast in the wrong precinct, a lawyer for the state’s Republican Party was stunningly clear.

“Because it puts us at a competitive disadvantage relative to Democrats,” said attorney Michael Carvin. “Politics is a zero-sum game.”

Battle lines are quickly being drawn by outside groups who plan to spend millions of dollars on advertising and outreach campaigns.

Republicans “are not even being coy about it. They are saying the ‘quiet parts’ out loud,” said Tiffany Muller, the president of End Citizens United, a left-leaning group that aims to curtail the influence of corporate money in politics. Her organization has launched a $10 million effort supporting the bill. “For them, this isn’t about protecting our democracy or protecting our elections. This is about pure partisan political gain.”

Conservatives, meanwhile, are mobilizing a $5 million pressure campaign, urging moderate Senate Democrats to oppose rule changes needed to pass the measure.

“H.R. 1 is not about making elections better,” said Ken Cuccinelli, a former Trump administration Homeland Security official who is leading the effort. “It’s about the opposite. It’s intended to dirty up elections.”

H.R. 1 would require states to automatically register eligible voters, as well as offer same-day registration. It would limit states’ ability to purge registered voters from their rolls and restore former felons’ voting rights. Among dozens of other provisions, it would also require states to offer 15 days of early voting and allow no-excuse absentee balloting.

On the cusp of a once-in-a-decade redrawing of congressional district boundaries, typically a fiercely partisan affair, the bill would mandate that nonpartisan commissions handle the process instead of state legislatures.

Many Republican opponents in Congress have focused on narrower aspects, like the creation of a public financing system for congressional campaigns that would be funded through fines and settlement proceeds raised from corporate bad actors.

They’ve also attacked an effort to revamp the federal government’s toothless elections cop. That agency, the Federal Election Commission, has been gripped by partisan deadlock for years, allowing campaign finance law violators to go mostly unchecked.

Another section that’s been a focus of Republican ire would force the disclosure of donors to “dark money” political groups, which are a magnet for wealthy interests looking to influence the political process while remaining anonymous.

Still, the biggest obstacles lie ahead in the Senate, which is split 50-50 between Republicans and Democrats.

On some legislation, it takes only 51 votes to pass, with Vice President Kamala Harris as the tiebreaker. On a deeply divisive bill like this one, they would need 60 votes under the Senate’s rules to overcome a Republican filibuster — a tally they are unlikely to reach.

Some Democrats have discussed options like lowering the threshold to break a filibuster, or creating a workaround that would allow priority legislation, including a separate John Lewis Voting Rights bill, to be exempt. Biden has been cool to filibuster reforms and Democratic congressional aides say the conversations are fluid but underway.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has not committed to a time frame but vowed “to figure out the best way to get big, bold action on a whole lot of fronts.”

He said: “We’re not going to be the legislative graveyard. ... People are going to be forced to vote on them, yes or no, on a whole lot of very important and serious issues.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614864960981.png" alt="House Speaker Nancy Pelosi discussed the 'For the People' act on the House Floor Wednesday ahead of the vote." />
 <figcaption>House Speaker Nancy Pelosi discussed the 'For the People' act on the House Floor Wednesday ahead of the vote.</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — House Democrats passed sweeping voting and ethics legislation over unanimous Republican opposition, advancing to the Senate what would be the largest overhaul of the U.S. election law in at least a generation.House Resolution 1, which touches on virtually every aspect of the electoral process, was approved Wednesday night on a near party-line 220-210 vote. It would restrict&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/54daa625511445969fee66696f7979c2">partisan gerrymandering</a>&nbsp;of congressional districts, strike down hurdles to voting and bring transparency to a murky campaign finance system that allows wealthy donors to anonymously bankroll political causes.The bill is a powerful counterweight to voting rights restrictions advancing in Republican-controlled statehouses across the country in the wake of Donald Trump’s repeated false claims of a stolen 2020 election. Yet it faces an uncertain fate in the Democratic-controlled Senate, where it has little chance of passing without changes to procedural rules that currently allow Republicans to block it.The stakes in the outcome are monumental, cutting to the foundational idea that one person equals one vote, and carrying with it the potential to shape election outcomes for years to come. It also offers a test of how hard President Joe Biden and his party are willing to fight for their priorities, as well as those of their voters.This bill “will put a stop at the voter suppression that we’re seeing debated right now,” said Rep. Nikema Williams, a new congresswoman who represents the Georgia district that deceased voting rights champion John Lewis held for years. “This bill is the ‘Good Trouble’ he fought for his entire life.”To Republicans, however, it would give license to unwanted federal interference in states’ authority to conduct their own elections — ultimately benefiting Democrats through higher turnout, most notably among minorities.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">H.R.1 is House Democracts&#39; top priority. It will federalize elections, put taxpayer dollars toward campaigns and make the FEC a partisan entity. States should be empowered to make elections fair, safe and secure. DC politicians do not need more power. <a href="https://t.co/5tojnd4u4p">pic.twitter.com/5tojnd4u4p</a>&mdash; Tracey Mann (@RepMann) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepMann/status/1366765237584674816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“Democrats want to use their razor-thin majority not to pass bills to earn voters’ trust, but to ensure they don’t lose more seats in the next election,” House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy said from the House floor Tuesday.The measure has been a priority for Democrats since they won their House majority in 2018. But it has taken on added urgency in the wake of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-2020-ap-fact-check-joe-biden-donald-trump-technology-49a24edd6d10888dbad61689c24b05a5">Trump’s false claims</a>, which incited the deadly storming of the U.S. Capitol in January.Courts and even Trump’s last attorney general, William Barr, found his claims about the election to be without merit. But, spurred on by those lies, state lawmakers across the U.S. have filed more than 200 bills in 43 states that would limit ballot access, according to a tally kept by the Brennan Center for Justice at New York University.In Iowa, the legislature voted to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/legislature-iowa-city-iowa-state-elections-coronavirus-pandemic-70884a8ce4834a87fcede7b81979d016">cut absentee and in-person early voting,</a>&nbsp;while preventing local elections officials from setting up additional locations to make early voting easier. In Georgia, the House on Monday voted for legislation&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/senate-elections-bills-legislation-elections-georgia-842d9ad16a78901322f4b952f6c0d8dd">requiring identification to vote by mail</a>&nbsp;that would also allow counties to cancel early in-person voting on Sundays, when many&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-us-news-race-and-ethnicity-stacey-abrams-georgia-93f7d957172f59968571e7d45874a814">Black voters</a>&nbsp;cast ballots after church.On Tuesday, the Supreme Court appeared ready to uphold voting restrictions in Arizona, which could make it harder to challenge state election laws in the future.When asked why proponents sought to uphold the Arizona laws, which limit who can turn in absentee ballots and enable ballots to be thrown out if they are cast in the wrong precinct, a lawyer for the state’s Republican Party was stunningly clear.“Because it puts us at a competitive disadvantage relative to Democrats,” said attorney Michael Carvin. “Politics is a zero-sum game.”Battle lines are quickly being drawn by outside groups who plan to spend millions of dollars on advertising and outreach campaigns.Republicans “are not even being coy about it. They are saying the ‘quiet parts’ out loud,” said Tiffany Muller, the president of End Citizens United, a left-leaning group that aims to curtail the influence of corporate money in politics. Her organization has launched a $10 million effort supporting the bill. “For them, this isn’t about protecting our democracy or protecting our elections. This is about pure partisan political gain.”Conservatives, meanwhile, are mobilizing a $5 million pressure campaign, urging moderate Senate Democrats to oppose rule changes needed to pass the measure.“H.R. 1 is not about making elections better,” said Ken Cuccinelli, a former Trump administration Homeland Security official who is leading the effort. “It’s about the opposite. It’s intended to dirty up elections.”So what’s actually in the bill?H.R. 1 would require states to automatically register eligible voters, as well as offer same-day registration. It would limit states’ ability to purge registered voters from their rolls and restore former felons’ voting rights. Among dozens of other provisions, it would also require states to offer 15 days of early voting and allow no-excuse absentee balloting.On the cusp of a once-in-a-decade redrawing of congressional district boundaries, typically a fiercely partisan affair, the bill would mandate that nonpartisan commissions handle the process instead of state legislatures.Many Republican opponents in Congress have focused on narrower aspects, like the creation of a public financing system for congressional campaigns that would be funded through fines and settlement proceeds raised from corporate bad actors.They’ve also attacked an effort to revamp the federal government’s toothless elections cop. That agency, the Federal Election Commission, has been gripped by partisan deadlock for years, allowing campaign finance law violators to go mostly unchecked.Another section that’s been a focus of Republican ire would force the disclosure of donors to “dark money” political groups, which are a magnet for wealthy interests looking to influence the political process while remaining anonymous.Still, the biggest obstacles lie ahead in the Senate, which is split 50-50 between Republicans and Democrats.On some legislation, it takes only 51 votes to pass, with Vice President Kamala Harris as the tiebreaker. On a deeply divisive bill like this one, they would need 60 votes under the Senate’s rules to overcome a Republican filibuster — a tally they are unlikely to reach.Some Democrats have discussed options like lowering the threshold to break a filibuster, or creating a workaround that would allow priority legislation, including a separate John Lewis Voting Rights bill, to be exempt. Biden has been cool to filibuster reforms and Democratic congressional aides say the conversations are fluid but underway.Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has not committed to a time frame but vowed “to figure out the best way to get big, bold action on a whole lot of fronts.”He said: “We’re not going to be the legislative graveyard. ... People are going to be forced to vote on them, yes or no, on a whole lot of very important and serious issues.”

House passes sweeping voting rights bill over GOP opposition

SCOTT COUNTY—Two people injured in an accident during a chase by law enforcement just before 12:30a.m. Thursday in Scott County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported the Scott County Sheriff's office was in pursuit of a 2002 Nissan Altima driven by Monica Renee Garcia, 33, Ogallala, NE, eastbound on County Road 290&nbsp;at North Omaha Road one mile east of U.S. 83.

Garcia lost control of the Nissan.&nbsp; It traveled off the road to the south and rolled.

EMS transported Garcia and a passenger in the Nissan David Paul Nuno, 24, Kearney, NE, to the Scott County Hospital.&nbsp; Garcia was also not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.&nbsp; &nbsp;Nuno has been booked into the Scott County jail, according to online jail records.

SCOTT COUNTY—Two people injured in an accident during a chase by law enforcement just before 12:30a.m. Thursday in Scott County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported the Scott County Sheriff's office was in pursuit of a 2002 Nissan Altima driven by Monica Renee Garcia, 33, Ogallala, NE, eastbound on County Road 290&nbsp;at North Omaha Road one mile east of U.S. 83.Garcia lost control of the Nissan.&nbsp; It traveled off the road to the south and rolled.EMS transported Garcia and a passenger in the Nissan David Paul Nuno, 24, Kearney, NE, to the Scott County Hospital.&nbsp; Garcia was also not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.&nbsp; &nbsp;Nuno has been booked into the Scott County jail, according to online jail records.

2 hospitalized after rollover crash during chase by Kan. deputies

Kansas City (AP) — A federal grand jury indicted a southwest Missouri man on charges that he threatened to kill two Democratic congressmen from Missouri and Tennessee.

Prosecutors said Kenneth Hubert, 63, of Marionville, Missouri, threatened to assault and kill Rep. Emanuel Cleaver II of Missouri and Rep. Steve Cohen of Tennessee.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hubert was indicted on Feb. 23. The three-count indictment was made public Wednesday after he was arrested and made his first court appearance, according to the U.S. attorney’s office in western Missouri.

Hubert allegedly threatened to assault and kill Cleaver on Jan. 7. He allegedly threatened Cohen on May 6, 2019. The indictment said both men were threatened to impede them from performing their officials duties, or in retaliation for the performance of their duties.

Cohen was threatened in a phone call to his Washington, D.C., office, according to the indictment, which does not say how the threat to Cleaver was transmitted.

Cleaver said that he doesn’t know Hubert and he was unaware of the threat until Cohen told him about it last week.

“I didn’t even know that this guy had made a threat. It was completely news to me when Steve Cohen told me,” Cleaver said.

Cleaver was threatened the day after the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/capitol-siege">Capitol riot&nbsp;</a>in Washington, D.C., but Hubert was not involved in that event, said Don Ledford, a spokesman for the U.S. attorney’s office.

Cleaver represents Missouri’s 5th District, which includes Kansas City. He is also the former mayor of Kansas City. Cohen represents Tennessee’s 9th District, which includes most of Memphis.

Hubert remains in custody pending a detention hearing on Monday. The federal public defender’s office was appointed to represent Hubert. A representative from the office did not return a phone call seeking comment.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614858198513.png" alt="Hubert is being held for U.S. Marshals in Greene County" />
 <figcaption>Hubert is being held for U.S. Marshals in Greene County</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas City (AP) — A federal grand jury indicted a southwest Missouri man on charges that he threatened to kill two Democratic congressmen from Missouri and Tennessee.Prosecutors said Kenneth Hubert, 63, of Marionville, Missouri, threatened to assault and kill Rep. Emanuel Cleaver II of Missouri and Rep. Steve Cohen of Tennessee.&nbsp;&nbsp;Hubert was indicted on Feb. 23. The three-count indictment was made public Wednesday after he was arrested and made his first court appearance, according to the U.S. attorney’s office in western Missouri.Hubert allegedly threatened to assault and kill Cleaver on Jan. 7. He allegedly threatened Cohen on May 6, 2019. The indictment said both men were threatened to impede them from performing their officials duties, or in retaliation for the performance of their duties.Cohen was threatened in a phone call to his Washington, D.C., office, according to the indictment, which does not say how the threat to Cleaver was transmitted.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1564430219299.png" alt="U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver was criticized after he ended his opening prayer on the first day of the new Congress by saying, “Amen and A-woman.”" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver was criticized after he ended his opening prayer on the first day of the new Congress by saying, “Amen and A-woman.”</figcaption>
 </figure>Cleaver said that he doesn’t know Hubert and he was unaware of the threat until Cohen told him about it last week.“I didn’t even know that this guy had made a threat. It was completely news to me when Steve Cohen told me,” Cleaver said.Cleaver was threatened the day after the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/capitol-siege">Capitol riot&nbsp;</a>in Washington, D.C., but Hubert was not involved in that event, said Don Ledford, a spokesman for the U.S. attorney’s office.Cleaver represents Missouri’s 5th District, which includes Kansas City. He is also the former mayor of Kansas City. Cohen represents Tennessee’s 9th District, which includes most of Memphis.Hubert remains in custody pending a detention hearing on Monday. The federal public defender’s office was appointed to represent Hubert. A representative from the office did not return a phone call seeking comment.

Prosecutors: Man threatened to kill Kansas City-area congressman

WASHINGTON (AP) — The White House warned that the U.S. may consider a military response to the rocket attack on Wednesday that hit an air base in western Iraq where American and coalition troops are housed, raising concerns this could trigger a new round of escalating violence.

A U.S. contractor died after at least 10 rockets slammed into the base. And while no group claimed responsibility, it was the first strike since the U.S. bombed Iran-aligned militia targets along the Iraq-Syria border last week.

Heightened tensions with Iranian-backed militia groups in Iraq could lead to more attacks, complicating the Biden administration’s desire to open talks with Iran over the 2015 nuclear deal, as well as the ongoing U.S. strategy to focus more attention on Asia.

Asked about the attack, President Joe Biden told reporters, “we are following that through right now.” He added, “Thank God, no one was killed by the rocket, but one individual, a contractor, died of a heart attack. But we’re identifying who’s responsible and we’ll make judgments” about a response.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki suggested that the “calculated” U.S. airstrikes last week could be a model for a military response. Those strikes were in response to an attack on American forces in northern Iraq earlier in February.

“If we assess further response is warranted, we will take action again in a manner and time of our choosing,” Psaki said.

Pentagon spokesperson John Kirby said the U.S. contractor “suffered a cardiac episode while sheltering” from the attack and died shortly afterward. He said there were no service members injured and all are accounted for. British and Danish troops also are among those stationed at the base.

The U.S. airstrikes last week, which killed one member of the Iran-aligned militia, had stoked fears of another cycle of tit-for-tat attacks as happened more than a year ago. Those attacks included the U.S. drone strike in January 2020 that killed Iranian Gen. Qassim Soleimani in Baghdad and set off months of increased troops levels in the region.

The latest attack also comes two days before Pope Francis is scheduled to visit Iraq despite&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/travel-islamic-state-group-coronavirus-pandemic-pope-francis-iraq-c12a15c5cce65c6edd4856567fcc7e7f">concerns about security and the coronavirus pandemic</a>. The much-anticipated trip will include stops in Baghdad, southern Iraq and the northern city of Irbil.

The rockets struck Ain al-Asad airbase in Anbar province early in the morning, U.S.-led coalition spokesperson Col. Wayne Marotto said. Kirby said the rockets were fired from east of the base, and that counter-rocket defensive systems were used to defend forces at the base. He added that while 10 rockets hit the base, he didn’t have information on what, if any, impact the defensive systems had in stopping any strikes. He said damage assessments were ongoing.

Asked if the attack may have come from Iranian-backed Shia militia groups, Kirby said the U.S. can’t attribute responsibility for the attack yet. He acknowledged, however, during a Pentagon briefing, that “we have seen rocket attacks come from Shia-backed militia groups in the past. So in that way, certainly it certainly coincides with our past experience here.”

It’s the same base that Iran struck with a barrage of missiles in January of last year in retaliation for the killing of Soleimani. Dozens of U.S. service members suffered concussions in that strike.

The Iraqi military released a statement saying that Wednesday’s attack did not cause significant losses and that security forces had found the launch pad used for the rockets — a truck. Video of the site shows a burning truck in a desert area.

British Ambassador to Iraq Stephen Hickey condemned the attack, saying it undermined the ongoing fight against the Islamic State group. “Coalition forces are in Iraq to fight Daesh at the invitation of the Iraqi government,” he tweeted, using the Arabic acronym for IS. “These terrorist attacks undermine the fight against Daesh and destabilize Iraq.”

Denmark said coalition forces at the base were helping to bring stability and security to the country.

“Despicable attacks against Ain al-Asad base in #Iraq are completely unacceptable,” Danish Foreign Minister Jeppe Kofod tweeted. The Danish armed forces said two Danes who were at the base at the time of the attack are unharmed.

Last week’s U.S. strike along the border was in response to a spate of rocket attacks that targeted the American presence, including one that killed a coalition contractor from the Philippines outside the Irbil airport.

After that attack, the Pentagon said the strike was a “proportionate military response.”

Marotto, the coalition spokesperson, said the Iraqi security forces were leading an investigation into the attack.

Frequent rocket attacks in Baghdad targeting the heavily fortified Green Zone, which houses the U.S. Embassy, during Donald Trump’s presidency frustrated the administration, leading to threats of embassy closure and escalatory strikes. Those attacks have increased again in recent weeks, since President Joe Biden took office, following a lull during the transition period.

U.S. troops in Iraq significantly decreased their presence in the country last year and withdrew from several Iraqi bases to consolidate chiefly in Ain al-Asad, Baghdad and Irbil.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614355996334.png" alt="Photo courtesy Coalition for Operation Inherent Resolve" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Coalition for Operation Inherent Resolve</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The White House warned that the U.S. may consider a military response to the rocket attack on Wednesday that hit an air base in western Iraq where American and coalition troops are housed, raising concerns this could trigger a new round of escalating violence.A U.S. contractor died after at least 10 rockets slammed into the base. And while no group claimed responsibility, it was the first strike since the U.S. bombed Iran-aligned militia targets along the Iraq-Syria border last week.Heightened tensions with Iranian-backed militia groups in Iraq could lead to more attacks, complicating the Biden administration’s desire to open talks with Iran over the 2015 nuclear deal, as well as the ongoing U.S. strategy to focus more attention on Asia.Asked about the attack, President Joe Biden told reporters, “we are following that through right now.” He added, “Thank God, no one was killed by the rocket, but one individual, a contractor, died of a heart attack. But we’re identifying who’s responsible and we’ll make judgments” about a response.White House press secretary Jen Psaki suggested that the “calculated” U.S. airstrikes last week could be a model for a military response. Those strikes were in response to an attack on American forces in northern Iraq earlier in February.“If we assess further response is warranted, we will take action again in a manner and time of our choosing,” Psaki said.Pentagon spokesperson John Kirby said the U.S. contractor “suffered a cardiac episode while sheltering” from the attack and died shortly afterward. He said there were no service members injured and all are accounted for. British and Danish troops also are among those stationed at the base.The U.S. airstrikes last week, which killed one member of the Iran-aligned militia, had stoked fears of another cycle of tit-for-tat attacks as happened more than a year ago. Those attacks included the U.S. drone strike in January 2020 that killed Iranian Gen. Qassim Soleimani in Baghdad and set off months of increased troops levels in the region.The latest attack also comes two days before Pope Francis is scheduled to visit Iraq despite&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/travel-islamic-state-group-coronavirus-pandemic-pope-francis-iraq-c12a15c5cce65c6edd4856567fcc7e7f">concerns about security and the coronavirus pandemic</a>. The much-anticipated trip will include stops in Baghdad, southern Iraq and the northern city of Irbil.The rockets struck Ain al-Asad airbase in Anbar province early in the morning, U.S.-led coalition spokesperson Col. Wayne Marotto said. Kirby said the rockets were fired from east of the base, and that counter-rocket defensive systems were used to defend forces at the base. He added that while 10 rockets hit the base, he didn’t have information on what, if any, impact the defensive systems had in stopping any strikes. He said damage assessments were ongoing.Asked if the attack may have come from Iranian-backed Shia militia groups, Kirby said the U.S. can’t attribute responsibility for the attack yet. He acknowledged, however, during a Pentagon briefing, that “we have seen rocket attacks come from Shia-backed militia groups in the past. So in that way, certainly it certainly coincides with our past experience here.”It’s the same base that Iran struck with a barrage of missiles in January of last year in retaliation for the killing of Soleimani. Dozens of U.S. service members suffered concussions in that strike.The Iraqi military released a statement saying that Wednesday’s attack did not cause significant losses and that security forces had found the launch pad used for the rockets — a truck. Video of the site shows a burning truck in a desert area.British Ambassador to Iraq Stephen Hickey condemned the attack, saying it undermined the ongoing fight against the Islamic State group. “Coalition forces are in Iraq to fight Daesh at the invitation of the Iraqi government,” he tweeted, using the Arabic acronym for IS. “These terrorist attacks undermine the fight against Daesh and destabilize Iraq.”Denmark said coalition forces at the base were helping to bring stability and security to the country.“Despicable attacks against Ain al-Asad base in #Iraq are completely unacceptable,” Danish Foreign Minister Jeppe Kofod tweeted. The Danish armed forces said two Danes who were at the base at the time of the attack are unharmed.Last week’s U.S. strike along the border was in response to a spate of rocket attacks that targeted the American presence, including one that killed a coalition contractor from the Philippines outside the Irbil airport.After that attack, the Pentagon said the strike was a “proportionate military response.”Marotto, the coalition spokesperson, said the Iraqi security forces were leading an investigation into the attack.Frequent rocket attacks in Baghdad targeting the heavily fortified Green Zone, which houses the U.S. Embassy, during Donald Trump’s presidency frustrated the administration, leading to threats of embassy closure and escalatory strikes. Those attacks have increased again in recent weeks, since President Joe Biden took office, following a lull during the transition period.U.S. troops in Iraq significantly decreased their presence in the country last year and withdrew from several Iraqi bases to consolidate chiefly in Ain al-Asad, Baghdad and Irbil.___

US warns of military response to rocket attack on Iraq base

MONTGOMERY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities&nbsp; investigating an armed robbery in Coffeyville communicated suspect vehicle and occupant information to deputies with the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, according to Sheriff Ron Wade.

Deputies were able to locate the suspect vehicle on U.S. Highway 169 North of Cherryvale and conducted a traffic stop.&nbsp; Deputies found two suspect in the vehicle.

Deputies took Sah’mondre Vanburen, age 23, of Parsons, Kansas and a juvenile into custody and transported them to the Montgomery County Sheriff’s office where they were booked on the requested charge of Aggravated Robbery.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614802110164.png" alt="Vanburen -photo Montgomery County" />
 <figcaption>Vanburen -photo Montgomery County</figcaption>
 </figure>MONTGOMERY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities&nbsp; investigating an armed robbery in Coffeyville communicated suspect vehicle and occupant information to deputies with the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, according to Sheriff Ron Wade.Deputies were able to locate the suspect vehicle on U.S. Highway 169 North of Cherryvale and conducted a traffic stop.&nbsp; Deputies found two suspect in the vehicle.Deputies took Sah’mondre Vanburen, age 23, of Parsons, Kansas and a juvenile into custody and transported them to the Montgomery County Sheriff’s office where they were booked on the requested charge of Aggravated Robbery.

Deputies catch Kansas armed robbery suspect during traffic stop

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas House members advanced a bill Wednesday that would lower the legal age to carry concealed firearms in Kansas from 21 to 18 for those who complete a background check and undergo safety training.

Eighteen, 19-, and 20-year-old Kansans can already carry firearms in the open in Kansas. Proponents of lowering the age for concealed carry said that those under 21 can serve in the military and are eligible to vote. Opponents countered that those under 21 are less mature and more prone to risk-taking

If passed, the bill would significantly increase the number of university and college students in Kansas eligible to carry concealed firearms on campus. But the legislation won’t change current laws that allow high schools to prohibit guns on school grounds, according to the Kansas Association of School Boards and the Kansas National Education Association, which opposes the bill.

Rep. Stephen Owens, a Hesston Republican, led the move on the House floor and said his interest stems in part from someone attempting to abduct his college-age daughter at a Wichita gas station last year. As a 20-year-old, she wasn’t eligible to carry a concealed gun.

“It’s that simple: Either they are adults at 18, or they are not, and we need to plan accordingly,” Owens told The Associated Press. “They can serve in our military, they can vote, they can do various other things as adults. They should have the right to protect themselves.”

The House rejected amendments from Democrats that included banning concealed weapons in the statehouse and allowing universities to decide whether to allow concealed carry on campuses.

Rep. Barbara Ballard, a Lawrence Democrat and administrator at the University of Kansas, said many of her constituents are concerned about the proposal.

“I would like for us not to have concealed carry on our campus so that faculty would feel comfortable not worrying about what might happen if they give someone a bad grade or you get in a disagreement with a student, or they don’t want to be hired by us because they see because we put on our website — and we have to — that we are a concealed carry campus,” Ballard said.

Rep. Susan Estes, a Wichita Republican, said she was harassed by a stalker when she was a college student, leading her to quit her job and her parents to move homes.

“There’s a sad truth that women are targets, especially as we’re going from our cars into our buildings,” Estes said.

Eleven states allow those who are 18 to carry a concealed firearm, according to the United States Concealed Carry Association, one of the largest firearm-owner groups in the country.

The House Federal and State Affairs Committee held a hearing on the bill, but the chairman opted not to hold a vote. State Rep. Stephen Owens, a Hesston Republican, then offered it as an amendment to another bill on the floor.

The bill also would expand the state’s recognition of concealed carry permits for out-of-state visitors who carry their own state’s permits.

The bill needs a final vote before it goes to the Senate for consideration.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas House members advanced a bill Wednesday that would lower the legal age to carry concealed firearms in Kansas from 21 to 18 for those who complete a background check and undergo safety training.Eighteen, 19-, and 20-year-old Kansans can already carry firearms in the open in Kansas. Proponents of lowering the age for concealed carry said that those under 21 can serve in the military and are eligible to vote. Opponents countered that those under 21 are less mature and more prone to risk-takingIf passed, the bill would significantly increase the number of university and college students in Kansas eligible to carry concealed firearms on campus. But the legislation won’t change current laws that allow high schools to prohibit guns on school grounds, according to the Kansas Association of School Boards and the Kansas National Education Association, which opposes the bill.Rep. Stephen Owens, a Hesston Republican, led the move on the House floor and said his interest stems in part from someone attempting to abduct his college-age daughter at a Wichita gas station last year. As a 20-year-old, she wasn’t eligible to carry a concealed gun.“It’s that simple: Either they are adults at 18, or they are not, and we need to plan accordingly,” Owens told The Associated Press. “They can serve in our military, they can vote, they can do various other things as adults. They should have the right to protect themselves.”The House rejected amendments from Democrats that included banning concealed weapons in the statehouse and allowing universities to decide whether to allow concealed carry on campuses.Rep. Barbara Ballard, a Lawrence Democrat and administrator at the University of Kansas, said many of her constituents are concerned about the proposal.“I would like for us not to have concealed carry on our campus so that faculty would feel comfortable not worrying about what might happen if they give someone a bad grade or you get in a disagreement with a student, or they don’t want to be hired by us because they see because we put on our website — and we have to — that we are a concealed carry campus,” Ballard said.Rep. Susan Estes, a Wichita Republican, said she was harassed by a stalker when she was a college student, leading her to quit her job and her parents to move homes.“There’s a sad truth that women are targets, especially as we’re going from our cars into our buildings,” Estes said.Eleven states allow those who are 18 to carry a concealed firearm, according to the United States Concealed Carry Association, one of the largest firearm-owner groups in the country.The House Federal and State Affairs Committee held a hearing on the bill, but the chairman opted not to hold a vote. State Rep. Stephen Owens, a Hesston Republican, then offered it as an amendment to another bill on the floor.The bill also would expand the state’s recognition of concealed carry permits for out-of-state visitors who carry their own state’s permits.The bill needs a final vote before it goes to the Senate for consideration.___

Kansas bill to lower concealed carry age advances in House

KANSAS CITY– Eight defendants have been indicted by a federal grand jury for their roles in a $4.1 million conspiracy to distribute more than 520 kilograms of methamphetamine, according to the United States Attorney.

Tina Marie Bailey, 36, and Martin Lee Williams, 58, both of Kansas City, Mo.; Mark Williams Hildebrand II, 31, and Harry Richard Watson Jr., also known as “Ricky,” 35, of St. Joseph, Mo.; Derek Sean Freese, 53, Carl Dewey Williams, 47, and Angeliqua Teresa Collins, 35, all of Moberly, Mo.; and &nbsp;Joshua Lee Laws, 44, of Unionville, Mo., were charged in a five-count indictment returned under seal by a federal grand jury in Kansas City, Mo., on Feb. 23, 2021. The indictment has been unsealed and made public following the arrests and initial court appearances of several defendants this week.

Collins, Laws, and Watson were arrested today. Martin Williams was arrested on Monday, March 1. The remaining defendants were already detained in state custody in separate and unrelated cases.

The federal indictment alleges that all eight defendants participated in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine from Jan. 1, 2017, to Feb. 22, 2021. The indictment also alleges that all eight defendants participated in a related money-laundering conspiracy.

In addition to the conspiracy counts, Bailey, Freese, Laws, Carl Williams, and Martin Williams are charged together with one count of possessing firearms in furtherance of crimes of violence and drug-trafficking crimes. Freese, Carl Williams, and Martin Williams are also charged together in one count of being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition. Bailey and Laws are also charged together in one count of being a drug user in possession of firearms and ammunition.

The firearms cited in the indictment include a Smith &amp; Wesson 9mm semi-automatic handgun with a magazine containing 16 live rounds with one round in the chamber; a Tisas 9mm semi-automatic handgun, a Mossberg 12-gauge shotgun, a Smith &amp; Wesson .380-caliber semi-automatic handgun, a Taurus 9mm semi-automatic handgun, a Ruger .45-caliber semi-automatic handgun, a High-Point 9mm semi-automatic handgun, a Smith &amp; Wesson .40-caliber, semi-automatic handgun, a Taurus 9mm semi-automatic handgun, a Ruger 9mm semi-automatic handgun, a Smith &amp; Wesson .40-caliber semi-automatic handgun, a Taurus 9mm semi-automatic handgun, a Ruger 9mm semi-automatic handgun, and various other firearms identified by witnesses, including those traded for methamphetamine.

The indictment also contains a forfeiture count, which would require the defendants to forfeit to the government $4,160,000, which allegedly was received in exchange for the unlawful distribution of more than 520 kilograms of methamphetamine, based on an average street price of $8,000 per kilogram. The defendants must also forfeit the firearms that were seized by law enforcement officers during the investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614772053451.png" alt="Watson photo Buchanan County" />
 <figcaption>Watson photo Buchanan County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY– Eight defendants have been indicted by a federal grand jury for their roles in a $4.1 million conspiracy to distribute more than 520 kilograms of methamphetamine, according to the United States Attorney.Tina Marie Bailey, 36, and Martin Lee Williams, 58, both of Kansas City, Mo.; Mark Williams Hildebrand II, 31, and Harry Richard Watson Jr., also known as “Ricky,” 35, of St. Joseph, Mo.; Derek Sean Freese, 53, Carl Dewey Williams, 47, and Angeliqua Teresa Collins, 35, all of Moberly, Mo.; and &nbsp;Joshua Lee Laws, 44, of Unionville, Mo., were charged in a five-count indictment returned under seal by a federal grand jury in Kansas City, Mo., on Feb. 23, 2021. The indictment has been unsealed and made public following the arrests and initial court appearances of several defendants this week.Collins, Laws, and Watson were arrested today. Martin Williams was arrested on Monday, March 1. The remaining defendants were already detained in state custody in separate and unrelated cases.The federal indictment alleges that all eight defendants participated in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine from Jan. 1, 2017, to Feb. 22, 2021. The indictment also alleges that all eight defendants participated in a related money-laundering conspiracy.In addition to the conspiracy counts, Bailey, Freese, Laws, Carl Williams, and Martin Williams are charged together with one count of possessing firearms in furtherance of crimes of violence and drug-trafficking crimes. Freese, Carl Williams, and Martin Williams are also charged together in one count of being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition. Bailey and Laws are also charged together in one count of being a drug user in possession of firearms and ammunition.The firearms cited in the indictment include a Smith &amp; Wesson 9mm semi-automatic handgun with a magazine containing 16 live rounds with one round in the chamber; a Tisas 9mm semi-automatic handgun, a Mossberg 12-gauge shotgun, a Smith &amp; Wesson .380-caliber semi-automatic handgun, a Taurus 9mm semi-automatic handgun, a Ruger .45-caliber semi-automatic handgun, a High-Point 9mm semi-automatic handgun, a Smith &amp; Wesson .40-caliber, semi-automatic handgun, a Taurus 9mm semi-automatic handgun, a Ruger 9mm semi-automatic handgun, a Smith &amp; Wesson .40-caliber semi-automatic handgun, a Taurus 9mm semi-automatic handgun, a Ruger 9mm semi-automatic handgun, and various other firearms identified by witnesses, including those traded for methamphetamine.The indictment also contains a forfeiture count, which would require the defendants to forfeit to the government $4,160,000, which allegedly was received in exchange for the unlawful distribution of more than 520 kilograms of methamphetamine, based on an average street price of $8,000 per kilogram. The defendants must also forfeit the firearms that were seized by law enforcement officers during the investigation.

8  Indicted for $4.1 million Kansas City meth conspiracy

RILEY COUNTY—A suspect in a series of alleged rapes that occurred in Ogden, Kansas from 2004-2012 has been extradited back to Kansas to face charges.

Michael James Tschantz, 46, Naples, Texas is being held on a $600,000 bond in the Riley County Jail on requested charges of 5 counts of rape of a victim under the age of 14, according to the Riley County booking report.

On November 11, 2020, officers filed a report for several past rape and aggravated criminal sodomy offenses in Ogden, listing a now 21-year-old woman as the victim and a now 46-year-old male known to her as the suspect, according to Riley County Police Department spokesperson Aaron Wintermote.

On February 19, police in Texas arrested Tschantz on a Riley County District Court warrant for five counts of rape of a child under 14 years of age.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614007991931.png" alt="Tschantz-photo Morris Co. Texas Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Tschantz-photo Morris Co. Texas Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY—A suspect in a series of alleged rapes that occurred in Ogden, Kansas from 2004-2012 has been extradited back to Kansas to face charges.Michael James Tschantz, 46, Naples, Texas is being held on a $600,000 bond in the Riley County Jail on requested charges of 5 counts of rape of a victim under the age of 14, according to the Riley County booking report.On November 11, 2020, officers filed a report for several past rape and aggravated criminal sodomy offenses in Ogden, listing a now 21-year-old woman as the victim and a now 46-year-old male known to her as the suspect, according to Riley County Police Department spokesperson Aaron Wintermote.On February 19, police in Texas arrested Tschantz on a Riley County District Court warrant for five counts of rape of a child under 14 years of age.

Child rape suspect arrested in Texas moved to Kansas jail

GEARY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities conducting an investigation of a man found deceased in a cell at the Geary County Detention Center, according the the sheriff's department.

Just after 6a.m. Wednesday, Junction City Fire/EMS along with Sheriff’s Deputies responded to the Detention Center for an unresponsive man in the jail. The subject, Identified as Allen Presley Harroald, 41, Wichita, was pronounced dead at the scene. Criminal activity is not suspected at this time.

Kansas Bureau of Investigations responded to the Detention Center at the request of the Geary County Sheriff’s Office, to investigate this incident per policy

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614810063622.png" alt="Harroald photo Geary Co." />
 <figcaption>Harroald photo Geary Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>GEARY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities conducting an investigation of a man found deceased in a cell at the Geary County Detention Center, according the the sheriff's department.Just after 6a.m. Wednesday, Junction City Fire/EMS along with Sheriff’s Deputies responded to the Detention Center for an unresponsive man in the jail. The subject, Identified as Allen Presley Harroald, 41, Wichita, was pronounced dead at the scene. Criminal activity is not suspected at this time.Kansas Bureau of Investigations responded to the Detention Center at the request of the Geary County Sheriff’s Office, to investigate this incident per policy

KBI investigating death of inmate at county jail

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal shooting and have identified the victim as 22-year-old Jacob Kalese of Wichita.

Just before 1a.m. Wednesday,&nbsp; police responded to a home in the 2400 Block of North Sunny Lane in Wichita, according to&nbsp;Captain Jason Stephens.&nbsp; In the backyard of that location, police located Kalese with several gunshot wounds.&nbsp; EMS transported him to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Investigators learned there was a small gathering of people at that location. An individual arrived at the home and fired multiple gunshots at the victim, according to Stephens.&nbsp; At this time, police believe the suspect is known to the victim or others who were at the gathering. Kalese did not live at the residence but was there with his girlfriend.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614789091458.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation early Wednesday -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation early Wednesday -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal shooting and have identified the victim as 22-year-old Jacob Kalese of Wichita.Just before 1a.m. Wednesday,&nbsp; police responded to a home in the 2400 Block of North Sunny Lane in Wichita, according to&nbsp;Captain Jason Stephens.&nbsp; In the backyard of that location, police located Kalese with several gunshot wounds.&nbsp; EMS transported him to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.Investigators learned there was a small gathering of people at that location. An individual arrived at the home and fired multiple gunshots at the victim, according to Stephens.&nbsp; At this time, police believe the suspect is known to the victim or others who were at the gathering. Kalese did not live at the residence but was there with his girlfriend.

Police ID victim, seek suspect in fatal shooting at Kan. home

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly held a press conference Wednesday to give an update regarding COVID-19, the Kansas Department of Labor and utility issues in Kansas.

The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 807 to a total of 295,109, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly held a press conference Wednesday to give an update regarding COVID-19, the Kansas Department of Labor and utility issues in Kansas.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FGovLauraKelly%2Fvideos%2F918501902294047%2F&show_text=false&width=560" 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>The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 807 to a total of 295,109, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;Coronavirus deaths were reported at 4816 an increase of 73.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614794901750.png" alt="Wednesday March 3, 2021 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Wednesday March 3, 2021 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>