CLINTON COUNTY —Authorities are investigating the cause of a large&nbsp;grain elevator fire in Lathrop northeast of Kansas City.

Just after 1 a.m. Thursday, law enforcement agencies blocked off the area to allow fire crews to work.&nbsp; Many nearby homeowners evacuated and due to the significant power outage, Lathrop R II schools were not in session on Thursday.

Officials with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration are assisting with the investigation. There are no reports of injury.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703191785615.png" alt="Photo Clinton Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photo Clinton Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>CLINTON COUNTY —Authorities are investigating the cause of a large&nbsp;grain elevator fire in Lathrop northeast of Kansas City.Just after 1 a.m. Thursday, law enforcement agencies blocked off the area to allow fire crews to work.&nbsp; Many nearby homeowners evacuated and due to the significant power outage, Lathrop R II schools were not in session on Thursday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703191615180.png" alt="Crews on the scene Thursday afternoon -photo KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Crews on the scene Thursday afternoon -photo KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>Officials with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration are assisting with the investigation. There are no reports of injury.

Large grain elevator fire erupts north of Kansas City

GODDARD — "I want a hippo for Christmas" has taken on a whole new meaning as Tanganyika Wildlife Park shares the news of the birth of a baby Pygmy Hippopotamus, according to a media release from the park.

Weighing only 13 lbs at birth, the male calf was born to parents Posie and Pluto on December 14. Posie and Pluto came to Tanganyika from different zoological facilities in Florida and have become key players in safeguarding this rare species.

Posie and Pluto, the sole pygmy hippo parents in Kansas, have been joyfully residing at Tanganyika Wildlife Park since 2014. This marks their fourth calf, and as Hoofstock Keeper Sierra Smith notes, "Posie is an attentive mother, nursing well and keeping the baby close— a true professional!" The birth of this new calf not only brings hope for preserving critically endangered Pygmy hippos, with fewer than 3,000 known individuals worldwide, but also underscores the significance of Tanganyika's participation in cooperative breeding programs with other accredited zoological facilities. With a strong need for male hippos in the breeding program, this latest addition holds even greater importance.

The secretive and nocturnal behavior of pygmy hippos sets them apart from their larger relatives, the Nile hippopotamus, known for living in large social groups called “bloats.” To overcome the challenges in studying pygmy hippos, researchers heavily rely on observations in zoological environments. "Every pygmy hippo birth, whether in human care or in their native habitat, is critical for their ongoing survival," emphasizes Dr. Samantha Russak, Tanganyika’s Chief of Research and Welfare. Tanganyika Wildlife Park, one of only 30 facilities in the United States housing pygmy hippos, plays a crucial role in preserving this rare species and contributing valuable knowledge about their behavior in captivity.

A renowned center for the preservation and breeding of rare and endangered species, Tanganyika Wildlife Park has welcomed three other pygmy hippo calves in recent years, including Nessie in 2017, Yeti in 2019, Link in 2021, and now the newest addition. Nessie has even become a parent herself, making Posie and Pluto proud grandparents.

During the park’s operating season from March through November, guests can see the Pygmy Hippo family in their habitat, as well as get up close and personal during the daily Hippo Feeding, where guests have the chance to toss carrots into a hippo’s mouth. Dr. Russak emphasized, "The support and engagement of our visitors are crucial in creating awareness about the importance of preserving endangered species like the pygmy hippopotamus."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703165757025.jpeg" alt="Baby Hippo-Photo Courtesy Tanganyika Wildlife Park" />
 <figcaption>Baby Hippo-Photo Courtesy Tanganyika Wildlife Park</figcaption>
 </figure>GODDARD — "I want a hippo for Christmas" has taken on a whole new meaning as Tanganyika Wildlife Park shares the news of the birth of a baby Pygmy Hippopotamus, according to a media release from the park.Weighing only 13 lbs at birth, the male calf was born to parents Posie and Pluto on December 14. Posie and Pluto came to Tanganyika from different zoological facilities in Florida and have become key players in safeguarding this rare species.Posie and Pluto, the sole pygmy hippo parents in Kansas, have been joyfully residing at Tanganyika Wildlife Park since 2014. This marks their fourth calf, and as Hoofstock Keeper Sierra Smith notes, "Posie is an attentive mother, nursing well and keeping the baby close— a true professional!" The birth of this new calf not only brings hope for preserving critically endangered Pygmy hippos, with fewer than 3,000 known individuals worldwide, but also underscores the significance of Tanganyika's participation in cooperative breeding programs with other accredited zoological facilities. With a strong need for male hippos in the breeding program, this latest addition holds even greater importance.The secretive and nocturnal behavior of pygmy hippos sets them apart from their larger relatives, the Nile hippopotamus, known for living in large social groups called “bloats.” To overcome the challenges in studying pygmy hippos, researchers heavily rely on observations in zoological environments. "Every pygmy hippo birth, whether in human care or in their native habitat, is critical for their ongoing survival," emphasizes Dr. Samantha Russak, Tanganyika’s Chief of Research and Welfare. Tanganyika Wildlife Park, one of only 30 facilities in the United States housing pygmy hippos, plays a crucial role in preserving this rare species and contributing valuable knowledge about their behavior in captivity.A renowned center for the preservation and breeding of rare and endangered species, Tanganyika Wildlife Park has welcomed three other pygmy hippo calves in recent years, including Nessie in 2017, Yeti in 2019, Link in 2021, and now the newest addition. Nessie has even become a parent herself, making Posie and Pluto proud grandparents.During the park’s operating season from March through November, guests can see the Pygmy Hippo family in their habitat, as well as get up close and personal during the daily Hippo Feeding, where guests have the chance to toss carrots into a hippo’s mouth. Dr. Russak emphasized, "The support and engagement of our visitors are crucial in creating awareness about the importance of preserving endangered species like the pygmy hippopotamus."

Pygmy hippopotamus for Christmas at Kansas wildlife park

NEW YORK (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/rudolph-giuliani">Rudy Giulian</a>i&nbsp;has filed for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rudy-giuliani-georgia-election-workers-defamation-case-cde7186493b3a1bd9ab89bc65f0f5b06">bankruptcy</a>, days after being ordered to pay $148 million in a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/giuliani-2020-election-georgia-defamation-moss-freeman-6f6446c4f5224f521db8ff7763fb12d1">defamation lawsuit</a>&nbsp;brought by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rudy-giuliani-election-workers-georgia-defamation-damages-98592d54dff8785518f288405c722398">two former election workers in Georgia</a>&nbsp;who said his targeting of them led to death threats that made them fear for their lives.

In his filing Thursday, the former New York City mayor, who was one referred to as 'America's Mayor', listed nearly $153 million in existing or potential debts, including close to a million dollars in tax liabilities, money he owes his lawyers and many millions of dollars in potential legal judgements in lawsuits against him. He estimated his assets to be between $1 million and $10 million.

The biggest debt is the $148 million he was ordered to pay a week ago for making false statements about the election workers in Georgia stemming from the 2020 presidential contest.

Ted Goodman, a political adviser and spokesperson for Giuliani, a one-time Republican presidential candidate and high-ranking Justice Department official, said in a statement that the filing “should be a surprise to no one.”

“No person could have reasonably believed that Mayor Giuliani would be able to pay such a high punitive amount,” Goodman said. He said the bankruptcy filing would give Giuliani “the opportunity and time to pursue an appeal, while providing transparency for his finances under the supervision of the bankruptcy court, to ensure all creditors are treated equally and fairly throughout the process.”

But declaring bankruptcy likely will not erase the $148 million in damages a jury awarded to the former Georgia election workers, Ruby Freeman and Wandrea’ “Shaye” Moss. Bankruptcy law does not allow for the dissolution of debts that come from a “willful and malicious injury” inflicted on someone else.

Last week’s jury verdict was the latest and costliest sign of Giuliani’s mounting financial strain, exacerbated by investigations, lawsuits, fines, sanctions, and damages related to his work helping then-Republican President Donald Trump try to overturn the 2020 election that he lost to Democrat Joe Biden.

In September, Giuliani’s former lawyer Robert Costello sued him for about $1.4 million in unpaid legal bills, alleging that Giuliani breached his retainer agreement by failing to pay invoices in full and a timely fashion. Giuliani has asked a judge to dismiss the case, claiming he never received the invoices at issue. The case is pending.

Costello represented Giuliani from November 2019 to this past July in matters ranging from an investigation into his business dealings in Ukraine, which resulted in an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rudy-giuliani-2021-federal-raid-ukraine-57bac6d437b86a3ff5bb1f4b5db5aaf5">FBI raid on his home and office</a>&nbsp;in April 2021, to state and federal investigations of his work in the wake of Trump’s 2020 election loss.

In August, the IRS filed a $549,435 tax lien against Giuliani for the 2021 tax year.

Copies were filed in Palm Beach County, Florida, where he owns a condominium and New York, under the name of his outside accounting firm, Mazars USA LLP. That’s the same firm that Trump used for years before it dropped him as a client amid questions about his financial statements.

Giuliani, still somewhat popular among conservatives in the city he once ran, hosts a daily radio show in his hometown on a station owned by a local Republican grocery store magnate. Giuliani also hosts a nightly streaming show watched by a few hundred people on social media, which he calls “America’s Mayor Live.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692827609455.png" alt="Giuliani-photo Fulton County" />
 <figcaption>Giuliani-photo Fulton County</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/rudolph-giuliani">Rudy Giulian</a>i&nbsp;has filed for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rudy-giuliani-georgia-election-workers-defamation-case-cde7186493b3a1bd9ab89bc65f0f5b06">bankruptcy</a>, days after being ordered to pay $148 million in a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/giuliani-2020-election-georgia-defamation-moss-freeman-6f6446c4f5224f521db8ff7763fb12d1">defamation lawsuit</a>&nbsp;brought by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rudy-giuliani-election-workers-georgia-defamation-damages-98592d54dff8785518f288405c722398">two former election workers in Georgia</a>&nbsp;who said his targeting of them led to death threats that made them fear for their lives.In his filing Thursday, the former New York City mayor, who was one referred to as 'America's Mayor', listed nearly $153 million in existing or potential debts, including close to a million dollars in tax liabilities, money he owes his lawyers and many millions of dollars in potential legal judgements in lawsuits against him. He estimated his assets to be between $1 million and $10 million.The biggest debt is the $148 million he was ordered to pay a week ago for making false statements about the election workers in Georgia stemming from the 2020 presidential contest.Ted Goodman, a political adviser and spokesperson for Giuliani, a one-time Republican presidential candidate and high-ranking Justice Department official, said in a statement that the filing “should be a surprise to no one.”“No person could have reasonably believed that Mayor Giuliani would be able to pay such a high punitive amount,” Goodman said. He said the bankruptcy filing would give Giuliani “the opportunity and time to pursue an appeal, while providing transparency for his finances under the supervision of the bankruptcy court, to ensure all creditors are treated equally and fairly throughout the process.”But declaring bankruptcy likely will not erase the $148 million in damages a jury awarded to the former Georgia election workers, Ruby Freeman and Wandrea’ “Shaye” Moss. Bankruptcy law does not allow for the dissolution of debts that come from a “willful and malicious injury” inflicted on someone else.Last week’s jury verdict was the latest and costliest sign of Giuliani’s mounting financial strain, exacerbated by investigations, lawsuits, fines, sanctions, and damages related to his work helping then-Republican President Donald Trump try to overturn the 2020 election that he lost to Democrat Joe Biden.In September, Giuliani’s former lawyer Robert Costello sued him for about $1.4 million in unpaid legal bills, alleging that Giuliani breached his retainer agreement by failing to pay invoices in full and a timely fashion. Giuliani has asked a judge to dismiss the case, claiming he never received the invoices at issue. The case is pending.Costello represented Giuliani from November 2019 to this past July in matters ranging from an investigation into his business dealings in Ukraine, which resulted in an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rudy-giuliani-2021-federal-raid-ukraine-57bac6d437b86a3ff5bb1f4b5db5aaf5">FBI raid on his home and office</a>&nbsp;in April 2021, to state and federal investigations of his work in the wake of Trump’s 2020 election loss.In August, the IRS filed a $549,435 tax lien against Giuliani for the 2021 tax year.Copies were filed in Palm Beach County, Florida, where he owns a condominium and New York, under the name of his outside accounting firm, Mazars USA LLP. That’s the same firm that Trump used for years before it dropped him as a client amid questions about his financial statements.Giuliani, still somewhat popular among conservatives in the city he once ran, hosts a daily radio show in his hometown on a station owned by a local Republican grocery store magnate. Giuliani also hosts a nightly streaming show watched by a few hundred people on social media, which he calls “America’s Mayor Live.”

'America's Mayor' filed for bankruptcy after $148 million court loss

HIGHLANDS COUNTY, Florida— The girlfriend of a man who was shot and killed after attacking Highlands County Sheriff’s Office deputies with a metal rod Tuesday is facing several criminal charges for involvement in that confrontation and the events that led up to the shooting, according to a media release from the Highlands County Sheriff's office.

Lakenya Lavonn Phillips, 30, of Wichita, Kansas, is in the Highlands County Jail on requested charges of attempted murder of a law enforcement officer, battery on a law enforcement officer, resisting arrest with violence and cruelty toward a child.

At Phillips’ first appearance Wednesday, she was ordered to be held without bond. Additionally, prosecutors told the judge that the state will be seeking a felony murder charge in relation to her actions in that contributed to the death of 39-year-old Richard Myron Ham.

Just after 4p.m. Tuesday, sheriff's deputies and Highlands County Fire-Rescue were called to the intersection of Bay Blossom Drive and U.S. 98 in Sebring, Florida, about a several people burning debris -- including live ammunition -- on the side of the road.

When deputies arrived, they found Ham armed with two metal rods. Ham refused to follow deputies’ orders and a taser was deployed. The taser did not appear to have an effect on Ham, who dropped the metal rods and pulled the taser probes from his body. At that point, Phillips picked up one of the rods and handed it to Ham, who used it to strike a deputy in the head.

At that point one of the deputies fired his agency-issued firearm at Ham. Ham was transported to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The injured deputy was taken to another hospital, where he was treated and released.

Immediately after the shooting, Phillips began to push deputies as they tried to secure Ham and render aid. She was taken into custody at the scene. 

 The initial investigation revealed that Ham and Phillips were burning the possessions of Phillips’ 9-year-old son because they believed he was possessed by a demon. 

At one point, witnesses said, Ham put the child into the fire and covered him with a blanket that was also on fire. The child was able to escape serious injury and is currently in DCF custody, according to the sheriff's office.

According to the child, he had not bathed or brushed his teeth in at least 10 days as they traveled to Florida and had not been fed for at least 24 hours. 

He said that both Ham and Phillips had regularly been using drugs and that Ham had earlier threatened him with a large knife, as well as claiming he had used that knife to kill someone.

 Investigators are working with law enforcement in several states to follow up on that statement. 

 Phillips and the child were listed as missing and endangered out of Wichita, Kansas on Dec. 6.

 It still has not been determined exactly when or why they came to Highlands County. Multiple firearms and drugs were found in the vehicle Ham and Phillips were driving at the time.The deputies involved in the incident have 16 years and 8 years of service and both have been trained in crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques. They have been placed on paid administrative leave while the shooting is investigated by the 10th Judicial Circuit’s Officer Involved Deadly Incident Task Force.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703180437982.png" alt="Phillips-photo Highlands County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Phillips-photo Highlands County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>HIGHLANDS COUNTY, Florida— The girlfriend of a man who was shot and killed after attacking Highlands County Sheriff’s Office deputies with a metal rod Tuesday is facing several criminal charges for involvement in that confrontation and the events that led up to the shooting, according to a media release from the Highlands County Sheriff's office.Lakenya Lavonn Phillips, 30, of Wichita, Kansas, is in the Highlands County Jail on requested charges of attempted murder of a law enforcement officer, battery on a law enforcement officer, resisting arrest with violence and cruelty toward a child.At Phillips’ first appearance Wednesday, she was ordered to be held without bond. Additionally, prosecutors told the judge that the state will be seeking a felony murder charge in relation to her actions in that contributed to the death of 39-year-old Richard Myron Ham.Just after 4p.m. Tuesday, sheriff's deputies and Highlands County Fire-Rescue were called to the intersection of Bay Blossom Drive and U.S. 98 in Sebring, Florida, about a several people burning debris -- including live ammunition -- on the side of the road.When deputies arrived, they found Ham armed with two metal rods. Ham refused to follow deputies’ orders and a taser was deployed. The taser did not appear to have an effect on Ham, who dropped the metal rods and pulled the taser probes from his body. At that point, Phillips picked up one of the rods and handed it to Ham, who used it to strike a deputy in the head.At that point one of the deputies fired his agency-issued firearm at Ham. Ham was transported to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The injured deputy was taken to another hospital, where he was treated and released.Immediately after the shooting, Phillips began to push deputies as they tried to secure Ham and render aid. She was taken into custody at the scene. The initial investigation revealed that Ham and Phillips were burning the possessions of Phillips’ 9-year-old son because they believed he was possessed by a demon. At one point, witnesses said, Ham put the child into the fire and covered him with a blanket that was also on fire. The child was able to escape serious injury and is currently in DCF custody, according to the sheriff's office.According to the child, he had not bathed or brushed his teeth in at least 10 days as they traveled to Florida and had not been fed for at least 24 hours. He said that both Ham and Phillips had regularly been using drugs and that Ham had earlier threatened him with a large knife, as well as claiming he had used that knife to kill someone. Investigators are working with law enforcement in several states to follow up on that statement. Phillips and the child were listed as missing and endangered out of Wichita, Kansas on Dec. 6. It still has not been determined exactly when or why they came to Highlands County. Multiple firearms and drugs were found in the vehicle Ham and Phillips were driving at the time.The deputies involved in the incident have 16 years and 8 years of service and both have been trained in crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques. They have been placed on paid administrative leave while the shooting is investigated by the 10th Judicial Circuit’s Officer Involved Deadly Incident Task Force.

Kan. woman put 9-year-old son in fire, thought he was demon possessed 

NEW YORK (AP) — Honda Motor’s American arm is recalling more than 2.5 million vehicles in the U.S. due to a fuel pump defect that can increase risks of engine failure or stalling while driving.

According to documents published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the fuel pump impeller used for in 2017-2020 Acura and Honda vehicles was improperly molded. This results in low-density impellers, which “can deform and interfere with the fuel pump body” over time, regulators said, leading to an inoperative fuel pump.

If the fuel pump module doesn’t work, the car’s engine may not start or can stall while driving, the NHTSA said, increasing crash and injury risks. Honda says it has not received any crash or injury reports related to this recall to date.

The automaker said Thursday that it will replace fuel pumps for all vehicles impacted by the recall at no cost in separate phases, with the first batch of owner notification letters going out in February.

“Countermeasure replacement parts are not available in sufficient quantities for all recalled vehicles at the time of this announcement, and American Honda intends to notify vehicle owners in stages,” Honda wrote.

Dealer notification was scheduled to kick off earlier this week, according to NHTSA documents.

Drivers can confirm if their specific vehicle is included in this recall using the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls" target="_blank">NHTSA site</a>&nbsp;and/or&nbsp;<a href="https://owners.honda.com/service-maintenance/recalls" target="_blank">Honda</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://owners.acura.com/service-maintenance/recalls" target="_blank">Acura’s</a>&nbsp;recall lookup platforms. The models impacted are:

NEW YORK (AP) — Honda Motor’s American arm is recalling more than 2.5 million vehicles in the U.S. due to a fuel pump defect that can increase risks of engine failure or stalling while driving.According to documents published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the fuel pump impeller used for in 2017-2020 Acura and Honda vehicles was improperly molded. This results in low-density impellers, which “can deform and interfere with the fuel pump body” over time, regulators said, leading to an inoperative fuel pump.If the fuel pump module doesn’t work, the car’s engine may not start or can stall while driving, the NHTSA said, increasing crash and injury risks. Honda says it has not received any crash or injury reports related to this recall to date.The automaker said Thursday that it will replace fuel pumps for all vehicles impacted by the recall at no cost in separate phases, with the first batch of owner notification letters going out in February.“Countermeasure replacement parts are not available in sufficient quantities for all recalled vehicles at the time of this announcement, and American Honda intends to notify vehicle owners in stages,” Honda wrote.Dealer notification was scheduled to kick off earlier this week, according to NHTSA documents.Drivers can confirm if their specific vehicle is included in this recall using the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls" target="_blank">NHTSA site</a>&nbsp;and/or&nbsp;<a href="https://owners.honda.com/service-maintenance/recalls" target="_blank">Honda</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://owners.acura.com/service-maintenance/recalls" target="_blank">Acura’s</a>&nbsp;recall lookup platforms. The models impacted are:1. 2018-2020 Honda Accord2. 2017-2020 Honda Accord Hybrid3. 2018-2020 Honda Civic 4D4. 2018-2020 Honda Civic 2D5. 2018-2020 Honda Civic 5D6. 2018-2020 Honda Civic Type R7. 2018-2019 Honda Clarity PHEV8. 2018-2020 Honda CR-V9. 2020-2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid10. 2018-2019 Honda Fit11. 2018-2020 Honda HR-V12. 2018-2020 Acura ILX13. 2019-2020 Honda Insight14. 2018-2020 Acura MDX15. 2018-2020 Acura MDX Hybrid16. 2017-2020 Acura NSX17. 2018-2020 Honda Odyssey18. 2019-2020 Honda Passport19. 2018-2020 Acura RDX20. 2018-2020 Honda Ridgeline21. 2018-2020 Acura RLX22. 2018-2020 Acura TLX

Honda recalling 2.5 million vehicles in U.S. over fuel pump issue

MONTGOMERY COUNTY —Authorities are investigating the cause of a fire at a Kansas home.

Just after 5:30a.m. Wednesday, crews&nbsp;responded to a reported house fire with injuries at 2nd and Magnolia in the city of Independence, according to a media release.&nbsp;

First responders found the home fully involved with fire with exposure to the north in danger. A second alarm was requested. A defensive attack with Tower 1 aerial operations brought the fire under control within 45 minutes. 

A patient was treated on scene and there was possibly one deceased animal in the home. Assisting Independence Fire-EMS was Cherryvale Fire-EMS,  Independence Rural Fire and Dearing Rural Fire.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703166089429.png" alt="photos Independence Fire and EMS" />
 <figcaption>photos Independence Fire and EMS</figcaption>
 </figure>MONTGOMERY COUNTY —Authorities are investigating the cause of a fire at a Kansas home.Just after 5:30a.m. Wednesday, crews&nbsp;responded to a reported house fire with injuries at 2nd and Magnolia in the city of Independence, according to a media release.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703166066613.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>First responders found the home fully involved with fire with exposure to the north in danger. A second alarm was requested. A defensive attack with Tower 1 aerial operations brought the fire under control within 45 minutes. A patient was treated on scene and there was possibly one deceased animal in the home. Assisting Independence Fire-EMS was Cherryvale Fire-EMS, Independence Rural Fire and Dearing Rural Fire.

One injured, home destroyed after 2-alarm Kansas fire

SHERMAN COUNTY —Two men in northwest Kansas are being recognized as heroes after making a daring rescue to save a man's life and protect others.

Sheriff Burton Pianalto shared on social media, "I want to give a shout out to a couple of true heroes! An incident happened on Interstate 70 Tuesday that led a Northwest Kansas farmer and his son to do extraordinary things to keep people safe in Sherman County.

A semi driver traveling west on Interstate 70, had a medical incident and he blacked out. His semi went into the median at highway speeds.

Traveling in the median, the vehicle stayed between the traffic lanes for about a quarter of mile where it jumped over a crossover. This slowed the semi-truck down. The farmer and his son traveling in the same direction noticed the driver needing help, so they went into action. 

The semi-truck slowed down enough so they could jump onto the passenger’s side, but they found the door locked. The son riding on the semi-truck asked his dad to throw him a hammer. He then broke the window out, crawled into the cab and stopped the semi&nbsp; before it got to the overpass at exit 17. 

This action more than likely saved the life of the truck driver along with protecting all the other travelers on Interstate 70 and Highway 27. 

"It is amazing what people will do to help others they do not know. Thank you to Brent Ginther and his son Brady for your heroic actions. Our community is incredibly grateful!"

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703161335109.png" alt="Photo Sherman County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photo Sherman County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>SHERMAN COUNTY —Two men in northwest Kansas are being recognized as heroes after making a daring rescue to save a man's life and protect others.Sheriff Burton Pianalto shared on social media, "I want to give a shout out to a couple of true heroes! An incident happened on Interstate 70 Tuesday that led a Northwest Kansas farmer and his son to do extraordinary things to keep people safe in Sherman County.A semi driver traveling west on Interstate 70, had a medical incident and he blacked out. His semi went into the median at highway speeds.Traveling in the median, the vehicle stayed between the traffic lanes for about a quarter of mile where it jumped over a crossover. This slowed the semi-truck down. The farmer and his son traveling in the same direction noticed the driver needing help, so they went into action. The semi-truck slowed down enough so they could jump onto the passenger’s side, but they found the door locked. The son riding on the semi-truck asked his dad to throw him a hammer. He then broke the window out, crawled into the cab and stopped the semi&nbsp; before it got to the overpass at exit 17. This action more than likely saved the life of the truck driver along with protecting all the other travelers on Interstate 70 and Highway 27. "It is amazing what people will do to help others they do not know. Thank you to Brent Ginther and his son Brady for your heroic actions. Our community is incredibly grateful!"

Kansas farmer, son make daring rescue of driver on I-70

BEAVER COUNTY, Oklahoma—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a man who is on the faculty at a community college in Kansas for alleged child sex crimes.

On December 13, the Beaver County Sheriff’s Office requested the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation to assist with a sexual assault investigation involving a child, according to a meida release.

Special agents with the OSBI interviewed the child, who reported being sexually abused. Evidence was collected and the suspect, 48-year-old Andrew Nyles Lackey, was interviewed. Lackey is listed as a welding instructor at Seward County Community College, <a href="https://sccc.edu/static/web/academic/academic-divisions/industrial-technology/welding-technology/faculty.html">according to the school's web site.</a>

Based on the information obtained during the investigation, officers arrested Lackey and booked him into the Beaver County Jail on a requested charge of Child Sexual Abuse.

The school suspended Lackey without pay following the arrest, according to a media release. He is also prohibited from campus and college activities.

“These charges are a serious concern, and we have taken this step in accordance with that,” stated SCCC President Brad Bennett in the release.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703105203089.png" alt="Lackey-photo OSBI" />
 <figcaption>Lackey-photo OSBI</figcaption>
 </figure>BEAVER COUNTY, Oklahoma—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a man who is on the faculty at a community college in Kansas for alleged child sex crimes.On December 13, the Beaver County Sheriff’s Office requested the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation to assist with a sexual assault investigation involving a child, according to a meida release.Special agents with the OSBI interviewed the child, who reported being sexually abused. Evidence was collected and the suspect, 48-year-old Andrew Nyles Lackey, was interviewed. Lackey is listed as a welding instructor at Seward County Community College, <a href="https://sccc.edu/static/web/academic/academic-divisions/industrial-technology/welding-technology/faculty.html">according to the school's web site.</a>Based on the information obtained during the investigation, officers arrested Lackey and booked him into the Beaver County Jail on a requested charge of Child Sexual Abuse.The school suspended Lackey without pay following the arrest, according to a media release. He is also prohibited from campus and college activities.“These charges are a serious concern, and we have taken this step in accordance with that,” stated SCCC President Brad Bennett in the release.

Kan. community college instructor suspended after arrest

WASHINGTON (AP) — President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">Joe Biden’s</a>&nbsp;push to have Congress replenish wartime aid for Ukraine as part of a deal on border and immigration policy changes will drag into next year.

The Senate, which had postponed its holiday recess, returned to Washington on Monday after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/border-security-ukraine-congress-senate-biden-cb8d4e3ad8271323cfd9294b527d6615">negotiators worked through the weekend</a>&nbsp;on the border legislation, trying to reach an agreement that could unlock the Republican votes for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-ukraine-israel-budget-3762a0bdf00653e3c8a38175d3c3d3cb">Biden’s $110 billion package of aid</a>&nbsp;for Ukraine, Israel and other security priorities.

The biggest line item in the funding request&nbsp;$61.4 billion to support Ukraine. Some of that money would go to replenishing Pentagon stockpiles of weapons that have already been provided.

Barely half of the senators returned for a Monday evening vote. Kansas Senior U.S. Senator Jerry Moran was in western Kansas for a ribbon cutting at a VA clinic.

“Obviously we need time,” said Sen. Chris Murphy of Connecticut, the top Democratic negotiator.

The delay heaps more uncertainty on the future of the Biden administration's priority of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-russia-war-funding-weapons-2153375d4394d5783fad73858b51e993">providing support against Russia's invasion</a>. It also puts a potential pause on politically fraught negotiations over immigration and border security policy, though Senate negotiators planned to continue working on the package.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said the negotiations were “among the most difficult things we’ve done in recent memory.”

“Everyone knows that something should be done to fix our broken immigration system,” he said in a Senate floor speech to start the week. “But we can’t do so by compromising our values. Finding the middle ground is exceptionally hard.”

The House has already departed for the year as Congress settles into a long winter's break. Lawmakers aren't scheduled to return until the second week of January, and they will then need to tend to other matters besides the Ukraine funding, including facing a partial shutdown in mid-January if Congress can't pass a government funding package.

But as the Senate undertook the first substantial rewrite of immigration and border security law in decades, Republicans insisted they would not agree to rushing legislation.

“Getting this agreement right and producing legislative text is going to require some time,” Republican Leader Mitch McConnell said on the Senate floor.

Schumer said both Republicans and Democrats would need to make more concessions and it would take “some more time to get it done.”

Members of the core Senate negotiating group — Murphy and Sens. Kyrsten Sinema, an Arizona independent, and James Lankford, an Oklahoma Republican — met with White House staff on Monday.

“We’re all going to be back in January, but it’s going to take a while to be able to finish up all the text,” Lankford said.

The weeks-long wait comes as the Defense Department says it has nearly run out of available funds for supporting Ukraine's defense. In a letter to Congress, the Pentagon notified lawmakers last week that will soon be transferring more than $1 billion to replenish stockpiles sent to Ukraine, with no further funds available as it maintains the United States’ own military readiness.

“Once these funds are obligated, the Department will have exhausted the funding available to us for security assistance to Ukraine,” according to the letter obtained by The Associated Press.

The department said “it is essential that Congress act without delay” on the pending supplemental request.

Ukrainian forces tried to launch a counteroffensive this year, but faced dug-in Russian troops, minefields and other hazards. They struggled to make any significant gains.

As the conflict grinds towards the end of a second year, U.S. public support has waned for sending billions of dollars more in weapons and economic aid. The European Union, too, had to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/eu-ukraine-aid-orban-membership-summit-dd194ead36abf3affab6e2c322d1f75a">push into the new year</a>&nbsp;a plan to supply Ukraine with $54.5 billion after a veto from Hungarian Prime Minister&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/viktor-orban">Viktor Orban</a>, a right-wing leader who is on good terms with Russian President Vladimir Putin as well as Donald Trump, the former president and front-runner for the Republican nomination next year.

As his country scrapes low on money to repel Russia, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has traveled the world to ask for support. He elicited praise from Republicans after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-zelenskyy-washington-congress-biden-5796a2429169d01959510f318fbc968a">meeting with them in the Capitol</a>&nbsp;last week, but the conservatives remained unmoved and in no hurry to approve Biden's emergency funding request.

Republicans have said there is still time to redouble support before Ukraine's defense suffers. Republican Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa said that since the European Union put off sending Kyiv more money until the new year, he thinks the U.S. can as well.

“If it’s OK for them, it’s surely OK for us,” he said.

Dozens of Republican House members have signaled they won't support continued Ukraine aid, and even GOP senators who in the past have been stalwart advocates of the Ukraine war effort have insisted that Congress also pass new border restrictions.

Biden has offered to compromise on border and immigration policy, and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-immigration-border-congress-ukraine-asylum-69007f56dca2977a2204c22cbc5cbef0">top White House officials have joined</a>&nbsp;the Senate negotiations, including Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-ukraine-israel-funding-us-mexico-border-e1da808689aeef52308d19010a5e3cfa">Negotiators have closed in on a list</a>&nbsp;of immigration enforcement measures, including detaining people who claim asylum at the border and granting nationwide authority to quickly remove migrants who have been in the U.S. for less than two years. They have also agreed on raising the initial threshold for people to enter an asylum claim in credible fear screenings.

The White House has tried to preserve an immigration program known as humanitarian parole. The Biden administration has leaned heavily on the use of humanitarian parole as part of its policy of providing legal pathways for some migrants to enter the country while beefing up consequences for those who don’t use those pathways. But Republicans have objected — and even sued to stop it — saying that the administration is essentially bypassing Congress and improperly letting migrants into the country who normally wouldn’t qualify.

Still, Biden's willingness to make concessions in the negotiations has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/senate-border-immigration-biden-66531bcefb908d5440a52b54c543b006">alarmed immigration advocates and drawn criticism from influential Hispanic Democrats</a>.

On a conference call with reporters Monday, advocates decried the policies under consideration as a return to the strategies pursued by Trump that left large numbers of migrants waiting in Mexico to apply for asylum in the U.S.

“If you have asylum seekers pushed back into Mexico, it’s going to be extremely dangerous,” said Kerri Talbot, executive director of The Immigration Hub.

The senators have also described their work as a complex undertaking as they delve into laws that for years have been at the center of intense legal and political fights.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The next roll call vote in the Senate is expected at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, January 8, 2024.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702427915109.png" alt="President Joe Biden shakes hands with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as they meet in the Oval Office of the White House Dec. 12-photo courtesy CSPAN&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>President Joe Biden shakes hands with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as they meet in the Oval Office of the White House Dec. 12-photo courtesy CSPAN&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">Joe Biden’s</a>&nbsp;push to have Congress replenish wartime aid for Ukraine as part of a deal on border and immigration policy changes will drag into next year.The Senate, which had postponed its holiday recess, returned to Washington on Monday after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/border-security-ukraine-congress-senate-biden-cb8d4e3ad8271323cfd9294b527d6615">negotiators worked through the weekend</a>&nbsp;on the border legislation, trying to reach an agreement that could unlock the Republican votes for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-ukraine-israel-budget-3762a0bdf00653e3c8a38175d3c3d3cb">Biden’s $110 billion package of aid</a>&nbsp;for Ukraine, Israel and other security priorities.The biggest line item in the funding request&nbsp;$61.4 billion to support Ukraine. Some of that money would go to replenishing Pentagon stockpiles of weapons that have already been provided.Barely half of the senators returned for a Monday evening vote. Kansas Senior U.S. Senator Jerry Moran was in western Kansas for a ribbon cutting at a VA clinic.“Obviously we need time,” said Sen. Chris Murphy of Connecticut, the top Democratic negotiator.The delay heaps more uncertainty on the future of the Biden administration's priority of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-russia-war-funding-weapons-2153375d4394d5783fad73858b51e993">providing support against Russia's invasion</a>. It also puts a potential pause on politically fraught negotiations over immigration and border security policy, though Senate negotiators planned to continue working on the package.Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said the negotiations were “among the most difficult things we’ve done in recent memory.”“Everyone knows that something should be done to fix our broken immigration system,” he said in a Senate floor speech to start the week. “But we can’t do so by compromising our values. Finding the middle ground is exceptionally hard.”The House has already departed for the year as Congress settles into a long winter's break. Lawmakers aren't scheduled to return until the second week of January, and they will then need to tend to other matters besides the Ukraine funding, including facing a partial shutdown in mid-January if Congress can't pass a government funding package.But as the Senate undertook the first substantial rewrite of immigration and border security law in decades, Republicans insisted they would not agree to rushing legislation.“Getting this agreement right and producing legislative text is going to require some time,” Republican Leader Mitch McConnell said on the Senate floor.Schumer said both Republicans and Democrats would need to make more concessions and it would take “some more time to get it done.”Members of the core Senate negotiating group — Murphy and Sens. Kyrsten Sinema, an Arizona independent, and James Lankford, an Oklahoma Republican — met with White House staff on Monday.“We’re all going to be back in January, but it’s going to take a while to be able to finish up all the text,” Lankford said.The weeks-long wait comes as the Defense Department says it has nearly run out of available funds for supporting Ukraine's defense. In a letter to Congress, the Pentagon notified lawmakers last week that will soon be transferring more than $1 billion to replenish stockpiles sent to Ukraine, with no further funds available as it maintains the United States’ own military readiness.“Once these funds are obligated, the Department will have exhausted the funding available to us for security assistance to Ukraine,” according to the letter obtained by The Associated Press.The department said “it is essential that Congress act without delay” on the pending supplemental request.Ukrainian forces tried to launch a counteroffensive this year, but faced dug-in Russian troops, minefields and other hazards. They struggled to make any significant gains.As the conflict grinds towards the end of a second year, U.S. public support has waned for sending billions of dollars more in weapons and economic aid. The European Union, too, had to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/eu-ukraine-aid-orban-membership-summit-dd194ead36abf3affab6e2c322d1f75a">push into the new year</a>&nbsp;a plan to supply Ukraine with $54.5 billion after a veto from Hungarian Prime Minister&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/viktor-orban">Viktor Orban</a>, a right-wing leader who is on good terms with Russian President Vladimir Putin as well as Donald Trump, the former president and front-runner for the Republican nomination next year.As his country scrapes low on money to repel Russia, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has traveled the world to ask for support. He elicited praise from Republicans after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-zelenskyy-washington-congress-biden-5796a2429169d01959510f318fbc968a">meeting with them in the Capitol</a>&nbsp;last week, but the conservatives remained unmoved and in no hurry to approve Biden's emergency funding request.Republicans have said there is still time to redouble support before Ukraine's defense suffers. Republican Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa said that since the European Union put off sending Kyiv more money until the new year, he thinks the U.S. can as well.“If it’s OK for them, it’s surely OK for us,” he said.Dozens of Republican House members have signaled they won't support continued Ukraine aid, and even GOP senators who in the past have been stalwart advocates of the Ukraine war effort have insisted that Congress also pass new border restrictions.Biden has offered to compromise on border and immigration policy, and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-immigration-border-congress-ukraine-asylum-69007f56dca2977a2204c22cbc5cbef0">top White House officials have joined</a>&nbsp;the Senate negotiations, including Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-ukraine-israel-funding-us-mexico-border-e1da808689aeef52308d19010a5e3cfa">Negotiators have closed in on a list</a>&nbsp;of immigration enforcement measures, including detaining people who claim asylum at the border and granting nationwide authority to quickly remove migrants who have been in the U.S. for less than two years. They have also agreed on raising the initial threshold for people to enter an asylum claim in credible fear screenings.The White House has tried to preserve an immigration program known as humanitarian parole. The Biden administration has leaned heavily on the use of humanitarian parole as part of its policy of providing legal pathways for some migrants to enter the country while beefing up consequences for those who don’t use those pathways. But Republicans have objected — and even sued to stop it — saying that the administration is essentially bypassing Congress and improperly letting migrants into the country who normally wouldn’t qualify.Still, Biden's willingness to make concessions in the negotiations has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/senate-border-immigration-biden-66531bcefb908d5440a52b54c543b006">alarmed immigration advocates and drawn criticism from influential Hispanic Democrats</a>.On a conference call with reporters Monday, advocates decried the policies under consideration as a return to the strategies pursued by Trump that left large numbers of migrants waiting in Mexico to apply for asylum in the U.S.“If you have asylum seekers pushed back into Mexico, it’s going to be extremely dangerous,” said Kerri Talbot, executive director of The Immigration Hub.The senators have also described their work as a complex undertaking as they delve into laws that for years have been at the center of intense legal and political fights.&nbsp;&nbsp;The next roll call vote in the Senate is expected at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, January 8, 2024.

Unhappy holiday: No $61 billion Ukraine funding from U.S. Senate

KANSAS CITY —Liberty Hospital, 2525 Glenn Hendren Drive, Liberty, Mo.,continues to experience a disruption to their computer systems that began Monday, according to a media release.

The hospital continued to care for patients following standard downtime protocols.

 The hospital has not transferred any additional patients to other facilities after the Kansas City Fire Department, along with the other strike team Ambulances, transported approximately 30 patients Tuesday, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins. Liberty EMS transported an additional 10 to 15.

Hospital officials continue to actively investigate the source of the disruption. "Patient safety and care are our utmost priority, as well as getting our systems back online safely. We expect this process to take time. Our primary and specialty care clinics continue to see certain patients, and are reaching out to reschedule others as needed."

The hospital is encouraging the public to seek emergency care at other hospital emergency departments. Our primary and specialty care clinics are contacting patients who have appointments scheduled  to determine next steps.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703156650753.png" alt="Photo courtesy Liberty Hospital" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Liberty Hospital</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Liberty Hospital, 2525 Glenn Hendren Drive, Liberty, Mo.,continues to experience a disruption to their computer systems that began Monday, according to a media release.The hospital continued to care for patients following standard downtime protocols. The hospital has not transferred any additional patients to other facilities after the Kansas City Fire Department, along with the other strike team Ambulances, transported approximately 30 patients Tuesday, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins. Liberty EMS transported an additional 10 to 15.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703037649784.png" alt="The Kansas City Fire Department, along with the other strike team Ambulances, transported approximately 30 patients-photo courtesy KCT" />
 <figcaption>The Kansas City Fire Department, along with the other strike team Ambulances, transported approximately 30 patients-photo courtesy KCT</figcaption>
 </figure>Hospital officials continue to actively investigate the source of the disruption. "Patient safety and care are our utmost priority, as well as getting our systems back online safely. We expect this process to take time. Our primary and specialty care clinics continue to see certain patients, and are reaching out to reschedule others as needed."The hospital is encouraging the public to seek emergency care at other hospital emergency departments. Our primary and specialty care clinics are contacting patients who have appointments scheduled to determine next steps.-------------------

Computer attack continues to impact services at KC-area hospital

BAGHDAD&nbsp; — At approximately 7:30 a.m. (Iraq time) on Wednesday a 122mm rocket was fired at al Assad Air Base in Iraq –the US military's largest in the country. The there were no injuries or damage caused, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.

Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve located the point of origin and passed the location to the Iraqi Security Forces who moved to the site to investigate. The ISF seized a flatbed truck modified to launch up to 5 x 122mm rockets that was located at the site.

Meanwhile, at least 46 people were killed and more than 100 wounded&nbsp; Wednesday after Israel bombarded the urban Jabaliya refugee camp near Gaza City, according to Munir al-Bursh, a senior official in the Health Ministry in Hamas-run Gaza.

The Israeli military said its troops have located “&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-news-12-20-2023-81b80e4716b53756c8fab96c183089ef">a vast tunnel network</a>&nbsp;” under Gaza City that included command and control positions, meeting rooms and hideout apartments for the most senior leaders of Hamas, including Yahya Sinwar and Ismail Haniyeh.

There were new signs of progress Wednesday in negotiations to halt the war in Gaza and secure the release of at least some of the estimated 129 Israeli captives held by Palestinian militants. Hamas said that Haniyeh, who is believed to be based in Qatar, was in Cairo on Wednesday to discuss the war, without providing more details.

Nearly 20,000 Palestinians have been killed since Israel declared war on Hamas, according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-gaza-health-ministry-health-death-toll-59470820308b31f1faf73c703400b033">Health Ministry in Gaza</a>, which does not differentiate between civilian and combatant deaths. Thousands more lie buried&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-gaza-buried-rubble-airstrikes-89c0e8d0934d573d94d2fbfeba44d933">under the rubble</a>&nbsp;of Gaza, the U.N. estimates. Israel says more than 130 of its soldiers have died in its ground offensive after Hamas&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-attack-military-war-a8f63b07641212f0de61861844e5e71e">raided southern Israel</a>&nbsp;on Oct. 7, killing about 1,200 people — mostly civilians — and taking&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hostages-gaza-b6ffc286ca7d4b48caaada43e9c6e411">about 240 hostages</a>.

BAGHDAD&nbsp; — At approximately 7:30 a.m. (Iraq time) on Wednesday a 122mm rocket was fired at al Assad Air Base in Iraq –the US military's largest in the country. The there were no injuries or damage caused, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve located the point of origin and passed the location to the Iraqi Security Forces who moved to the site to investigate. The ISF seized a flatbed truck modified to launch up to 5 x 122mm rockets that was located at the site.Meanwhile, at least 46 people were killed and more than 100 wounded&nbsp; Wednesday after Israel bombarded the urban Jabaliya refugee camp near Gaza City, according to Munir al-Bursh, a senior official in the Health Ministry in Hamas-run Gaza.The Israeli military said its troops have located “&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-news-12-20-2023-81b80e4716b53756c8fab96c183089ef">a vast tunnel network</a>&nbsp;” under Gaza City that included command and control positions, meeting rooms and hideout apartments for the most senior leaders of Hamas, including Yahya Sinwar and Ismail Haniyeh.There were new signs of progress Wednesday in negotiations to halt the war in Gaza and secure the release of at least some of the estimated 129 Israeli captives held by Palestinian militants. Hamas said that Haniyeh, who is believed to be based in Qatar, was in Cairo on Wednesday to discuss the war, without providing more details.Nearly 20,000 Palestinians have been killed since Israel declared war on Hamas, according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-gaza-health-ministry-health-death-toll-59470820308b31f1faf73c703400b033">Health Ministry in Gaza</a>, which does not differentiate between civilian and combatant deaths. Thousands more lie buried&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-gaza-buried-rubble-airstrikes-89c0e8d0934d573d94d2fbfeba44d933">under the rubble</a>&nbsp;of Gaza, the U.N. estimates. Israel says more than 130 of its soldiers have died in its ground offensive after Hamas&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-attack-military-war-a8f63b07641212f0de61861844e5e71e">raided southern Israel</a>&nbsp;on Oct. 7, killing about 1,200 people — mostly civilians — and taking&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hostages-gaza-b6ffc286ca7d4b48caaada43e9c6e411">about 240 hostages</a>.

Another rocket fired at U.S. air base in Iraq

COWLEY COUNTY—Two people were injured in a hit-and-run incident just after 11p.m. Tuesday in Cowley County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Ford F150 driven by Audrey N L Yingling, 23, Winfield, was northbound in the parking lot at 902 Main Street and struck 2 pedestrians and then left the scene.

EMS transported the pedestrians identified as 30-year-old Meighan E I&nbsp;Hipsher of Burden and a child to Wesley Medical Center.&nbsp; Police arrested Yingling. She remains in custody in Cowley County, according to online jail records. Police have not released details on possible charges.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703083075093.png" alt="Yingling-photo Cowley Co." />
 <figcaption>Yingling-photo Cowley Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>COWLEY COUNTY—Two people were injured in a hit-and-run incident just after 11p.m. Tuesday in Cowley County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Ford F150 driven by Audrey N L Yingling, 23, Winfield, was northbound in the parking lot at 902 Main Street and struck 2 pedestrians and then left the scene.EMS transported the pedestrians identified as 30-year-old Meighan E I&nbsp;Hipsher of Burden and a child to Wesley Medical Center.&nbsp; Police arrested Yingling. She remains in custody in Cowley County, according to online jail records. Police have not released details on possible charges.

Hit-and run: Kan. driver struck woman, child in parking lot

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged child sex crimes.&nbsp;

On Dec. 18, the Shawnee County Sheriff's Office's Criminal Investigations Division conducted an investigation into child sex crimes. and arrested Craig H. Miller, 39, of Topeka, according to Sheriff Brian Hill.

Miller was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges that include electronic solicitation of a child, promote obscenity to minors, attempted sexual exploitation of a child, and attempted criminal sodomy with a child

On October 19, deputies arrested&nbsp; Miller and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of attempted electronic solicitation of a child, attempted indecent liberties with a child, attempted aggravated criminal sodomy, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702939790946.png" alt="Miller photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Miller photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged child sex crimes.&nbsp;On Dec. 18, the Shawnee County Sheriff's Office's Criminal Investigations Division conducted an investigation into child sex crimes. and arrested Craig H. Miller, 39, of Topeka, according to Sheriff Brian Hill.Miller was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges that include electronic solicitation of a child, promote obscenity to minors, attempted sexual exploitation of a child, and attempted criminal sodomy with a childOn October 19, deputies arrested&nbsp; Miller and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of attempted electronic solicitation of a child, attempted indecent liberties with a child, attempted aggravated criminal sodomy, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Kan. man jailed 2nd time in 60-days for alleged child sex crimes

ALLEN COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas woman after an&nbsp; accident that occurred just after 1:30p.m. Monday in Allen County.&nbsp;

According to Allen County Undersheriff Daren Kellerman, a vehicle driven by a 58-year-old woman from Humboldt was traveling south of Iola when it crossed the center line before slowly drifting back to the driving lane and off the road.&nbsp;

The vehicle, traveling at an estimated 40-45 mph struck a road sign, launched over a culvert driveway embankment and struck a utility pole.

Investigators determined that the driver was inhaling potentially toxic fumes while driving.&nbsp;"Inhalant abuse, or huffing, is always extremely dangerous. I've never investigated a crash where someone was huffing while driving. We are very lucky that nobody was killed, according to Kellerman.

Deputies arrested the driver who avoided injury because she was wearing a seat belt.&nbsp; Deputies did not released details on possible charges.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703082686794.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>ALLEN COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas woman after an&nbsp; accident that occurred just after 1:30p.m. Monday in Allen County.&nbsp;According to Allen County Undersheriff Daren Kellerman, a vehicle driven by a 58-year-old woman from Humboldt was traveling south of Iola when it crossed the center line before slowly drifting back to the driving lane and off the road.&nbsp;The vehicle, traveling at an estimated 40-45 mph struck a road sign, launched over a culvert driveway embankment and struck a utility pole.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703082718465.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Investigators determined that the driver was inhaling potentially toxic fumes while driving.&nbsp;"Inhalant abuse, or huffing, is always extremely dangerous. I've never investigated a crash where someone was huffing while driving. We are very lucky that nobody was killed, according to Kellerman.Deputies arrested the driver who avoided injury because she was wearing a seat belt.&nbsp; Deputies did not released details on possible charges.

Sheriff: Kansas driver was huffing before crash

MILWAUKEE (AP) — President Joe Biden said it's “self-evident” that Donald Trump is an insurrectionist for trying to overturn his 2020 election loss but stopped short of commenting on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-insurrection-14th-amendment-2024-colorado-d16dd8f354eeaf450558378c65fd79a2">a Colorado legal case</a>&nbsp;that would bar him from the state's ballot.

The Democratic president made the comments about his likely Republican opponent in next year's election shortly after landing in Milwaukee for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/milwaukee-biden-wisconsin-small-businesses-black-latino-b12b198e413c7916e16ae4b61179d828">an event focused on the economy</a>.

“Whether the 14th Amendment applies or not, we’ll let the court make that decision," Biden told reporters on the tarmac after stepping off Air Force One. "But he certainly supported an insurrection. There’s no question about it. None. Zero. And he seems to be doubling down on it.”

The Colorado Supreme Court issued a decision on Tuesday declaring that Trump is ineligible to serve as president under&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-14th-amendment-insurrection-2024-election-ballot-9c5f79203109ba221b35a48e708ad725">Section 3 of the 14th Amendment</a>. It's the first time in the country's history that the provision has been used to keep a candidate off the ballot.

Republicans have denounced the court's decision, and Trump's lawyers said they plan to appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Trump has refused to back down from his lies that voter fraud allowed Biden to win in 2020, and he's pledged to pardon supporters who participated in the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol.

Biden has repeatedly condemned Trump and described him as a threat to American democracy. However, he's been more circumspect when addressing his predecessor's legal challenges, including several criminal cases against him, and this one is no different.

Press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre declined to comment when asked by reporters aboard Air Force One.

“The president is not involved; we’re not involved in this," she said. "This is a legal process and we’re not involved in this.”

Biden's campaign was similarly circumspect in a call with reporters on Tuesday.

“What I will say is that the president looks forward to defeating Donald Trump or whoever else emerges from the Republican primary on the ballot box in November 2024," said Brooke Goren, the campaign's deputy communications director.

MILWAUKEE (AP) — President Joe Biden said it's “self-evident” that Donald Trump is an insurrectionist for trying to overturn his 2020 election loss but stopped short of commenting on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-insurrection-14th-amendment-2024-colorado-d16dd8f354eeaf450558378c65fd79a2">a Colorado legal case</a>&nbsp;that would bar him from the state's ballot.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Q: Is Trump an insurrectionist, sir? President Biden: &quot;It&#39;s self-evident. You saw it all. Now whether the 14th Amendment applies, I&#39;ll let the court make that decision. But he certainly supported an insurrection. There&#39;s no question about it. None. Zero.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/kREbFSDbyV">pic.twitter.com/kREbFSDbyV</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1737526031697801707?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The Democratic president made the comments about his likely Republican opponent in next year's election shortly after landing in Milwaukee for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/milwaukee-biden-wisconsin-small-businesses-black-latino-b12b198e413c7916e16ae4b61179d828">an event focused on the economy</a>.“Whether the 14th Amendment applies or not, we’ll let the court make that decision," Biden told reporters on the tarmac after stepping off Air Force One. "But he certainly supported an insurrection. There’s no question about it. None. Zero. And he seems to be doubling down on it.”The Colorado Supreme Court issued a decision on Tuesday declaring that Trump is ineligible to serve as president under&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-14th-amendment-insurrection-2024-election-ballot-9c5f79203109ba221b35a48e708ad725">Section 3 of the 14th Amendment</a>. It's the first time in the country's history that the provision has been used to keep a candidate off the ballot.Republicans have denounced the court's decision, and Trump's lawyers said they plan to appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court.Trump has refused to back down from his lies that voter fraud allowed Biden to win in 2020, and he's pledged to pardon supporters who participated in the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol.Biden has repeatedly condemned Trump and described him as a threat to American democracy. However, he's been more circumspect when addressing his predecessor's legal challenges, including several criminal cases against him, and this one is no different.Press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre declined to comment when asked by reporters aboard Air Force One.“The president is not involved; we’re not involved in this," she said. "This is a legal process and we’re not involved in this.”Biden's campaign was similarly circumspect in a call with reporters on Tuesday.“What I will say is that the president looks forward to defeating Donald Trump or whoever else emerges from the Republican primary on the ballot box in November 2024," said Brooke Goren, the campaign's deputy communications director.

🎥 President Biden asked if Trump supported insurrection

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal accident that occurred just before 9p.m. Monday in Kansas City have identified the driver who died as 33-year-old Cy'erra R. Lowey of Kansas City,&nbsp;according to KCPD Captain Corey Carlisle.

&nbsp;A KIA Rondo driven by Lowery was southbound on Cleaver II&nbsp; at a very high rate of speed. Just before Elmwood, the KIA traveled off the road to the left through the grassy median and struck a large tree.

Lowery, sole occupant of the KIA, was pronounced deceased at the scene. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to Carlisle.

This is fatality #100 compared to #84 at this time last year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal accident that occurred just before 9p.m. Monday in Kansas City have identified the driver who died as 33-year-old Cy'erra R. Lowey of Kansas City,&nbsp;according to KCPD Captain Corey Carlisle.&nbsp;A KIA Rondo driven by Lowery was southbound on Cleaver II&nbsp; at a very high rate of speed. Just before Elmwood, the KIA traveled off the road to the left through the grassy median and struck a large tree.Lowery, sole occupant of the KIA, was pronounced deceased at the scene. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to Carlisle.This is fatality #100 compared to #84 at this time last year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

KCPD IDs woman who died in crash after car struck a tree

CAIRO(AP) —The top leader of Yemen's Houthi rebels threatened Wednesday to target U.S. warships if attacks are launched against Yemen, a day after Washington announced a new international coalition to protect commercial vessels sailing through the Red Sea.

For weeks, the Iran-backed rebels in Yemen have been attacking ships transiting the Red Sea with drones and ballistic missiles. The group has said their attacks aim to end Israel's military offensive in the Gaza Strip. But the Israeli ties to the commercial ships targeted by the hardline Shia force have grown more tenuous with each attack.

In an hourlong speech, Abdel Malek al-Houthi said, “America seeks to militarize the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, seeking to turn the region into a war zone.”

On Tuesday, Washington announced the establishment of a new international coalition to protect vessels traveling through the Red Sea. The United Kingdom, Bahrain, Canada, France, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Seychelles and Spain have joined the new maritime security mission, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said. Bahrain is the only Arab country in the coalition, and it does not border the Red Sea. Few additional details about how the maritime alliance will operate were made public.

The rebel leader also accused other Arab countries of intercepting its missile fire bound for Israel. In both cases, no specific country was named.

The Houthis control the capital, Sanaa, several northern provinces bordering Saudi Arabia as well as much of the western highlands and Red Sea ports.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696803172229.png" alt="The USS Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group arrived in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea in mid October-photo U.S. Central Command" />
 <figcaption>The USS Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group arrived in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea in mid October-photo U.S. Central Command</figcaption>
 </figure>CAIRO(AP) —The top leader of Yemen's Houthi rebels threatened Wednesday to target U.S. warships if attacks are launched against Yemen, a day after Washington announced a new international coalition to protect commercial vessels sailing through the Red Sea.For weeks, the Iran-backed rebels in Yemen have been attacking ships transiting the Red Sea with drones and ballistic missiles. The group has said their attacks aim to end Israel's military offensive in the Gaza Strip. But the Israeli ties to the commercial ships targeted by the hardline Shia force have grown more tenuous with each attack.In an hourlong speech, Abdel Malek al-Houthi said, “America seeks to militarize the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, seeking to turn the region into a war zone.”On Tuesday, Washington announced the establishment of a new international coalition to protect vessels traveling through the Red Sea. The United Kingdom, Bahrain, Canada, France, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Seychelles and Spain have joined the new maritime security mission, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said. Bahrain is the only Arab country in the coalition, and it does not border the Red Sea. Few additional details about how the maritime alliance will operate were made public.The rebel leader also accused other Arab countries of intercepting its missile fire bound for Israel. In both cases, no specific country was named.The Houthis control the capital, Sanaa, several northern provinces bordering Saudi Arabia as well as much of the western highlands and Red Sea ports.

Terrorists threaten to strike US warships if Yemen is attacked 

DOUGLAS COUNTY —On Tuesday morning, police issued a Silver Alert for 73-year-old Jerry Adams who had not been seen since December 11.

&nbsp;Late Tuesday, Lawrence Police were notified&nbsp; that Jerry Adams’ vehicle was located in Kansas City, Missouri, with a deceased man inside the vehicle, according to Lawrence Police Sgt&nbsp;Sgt. Drew Fennelly.

 While the man has not been positively identified, investigators believe it is Jerry Adams. There has been no indication this case was a homicide, but police will await the coroner’s determination on cause and manner of death.&nbsp;

DOUGLAS COUNTY –The Silver Alert for missing Lawrence resident&nbsp; 73-year-old Jerry Adams has been cancelled, according to Lawrence Police. Authorities are expected to released more information Wednesday as they are able to confirm further details.

Check the Post for an update on Wednesday.

DOUGLAS COUNTY–&nbsp;Law enforcement authorities are asking for the public’s assistance in locating 73-year-old Jerry Dean Adams of Lawrence, according to a media release from Lawrence Police.

Adams was reported missing on December 19, and hasn’t been heard from since December 11.

 Adams is believed to be driving a white 2002 Chevrolet full size van with Kansas tag 008MFS, which was last known to be leaving Lawrence on December 11, around 9:15 a.m. 

&nbsp;Anyone with information on Adams’ location, or his vehicle location, is asked to call 911.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703008899269.png" alt="Adams-photo Lawrence Police" />
 <figcaption>Adams-photo Lawrence Police</figcaption>
 </figure>DOUGLAS COUNTY —On Tuesday morning, police issued a Silver Alert for 73-year-old Jerry Adams who had not been seen since December 11.&nbsp;Late Tuesday, Lawrence Police were notified&nbsp; that Jerry Adams’ vehicle was located in Kansas City, Missouri, with a deceased man inside the vehicle, according to Lawrence Police Sgt&nbsp;Sgt. Drew Fennelly. While the man has not been positively identified, investigators believe it is Jerry Adams. There has been no indication this case was a homicide, but police will await the coroner’s determination on cause and manner of death.&nbsp;-----------------------DOUGLAS COUNTY –The Silver Alert for missing Lawrence resident&nbsp; 73-year-old Jerry Adams has been cancelled, according to Lawrence Police. Authorities are expected to released more information Wednesday as they are able to confirm further details.Check the Post for an update on Wednesday.-----------DOUGLAS COUNTY–&nbsp;Law enforcement authorities are asking for the public’s assistance in locating 73-year-old Jerry Dean Adams of Lawrence, according to a media release from Lawrence Police.Adams was reported missing on December 19, and hasn’t been heard from since December 11.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703008988714.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure> Adams is believed to be driving a white 2002 Chevrolet full size van with Kansas tag 008MFS, which was last known to be leaving Lawrence on December 11, around 9:15 a.m. &nbsp;Anyone with information on Adams’ location, or his vehicle location, is asked to call 911.

Silver Alert canceled, body of missing Kan. man found in his van

TOPEKA —Governor Laura Kelly is taking some time this week to enjoy some good music thanks to her staff.&nbsp;

On social media Wednesday, the governor wrote, "Now that Taylor Swift has been spending more time in Kansas — thanks Travis Kelce— my fearless staff thought it was time I drop everything now and give her music a proper listen."

Check out the personalized CD with handpicked tracks I received from my staff. It pairs well with the Reputation friendship bracelet a Swiftie gave me at a recent Chiefs game. What other songs should I check out?

TOPEKA —Governor Laura Kelly is taking some time this week to enjoy some good music thanks to her staff.&nbsp;On social media Wednesday, the governor wrote, "Now that Taylor Swift has been spending more time in Kansas — thanks Travis Kelce— my fearless staff thought it was time I drop everything now and give her music a proper listen."<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Check out the personalized CD with handpicked tracks I received from my staff. It pairs well with the Reputation friendship bracelet a Swiftie gave me at a recent <a href="https://twitter.com/Chiefs?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Chiefs</a> game. What other songs should I check out? <a href="https://t.co/n1gGH0I6lh">pic.twitter.com/n1gGH0I6lh</a>&mdash; Governor Laura Kelly (@GovLauraKelly) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovLauraKelly/status/1737535802890932627?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Check out the personalized CD with handpicked tracks I received from my staff. It pairs well with the Reputation friendship bracelet a Swiftie gave me at a recent Chiefs game. What other songs should I check out?

Kansas governor might just become a Swiftie

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a car crash and follow up investigation.

Just before 1p.m.&nbsp; Monday, the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center received a report of a single vehicle rollover injury auto accident in the 5000 block SW 61st Street in Topeka, according to Sheriff's Lt. Scott Wanamaker.

 Deputies arrived to find that three of the four adult occupants of the vehicle were injured from the accident. Two of the occupants sustained non-life threatening injuries and one sustained life threatening injuries. American Medical response transported all three of the injured occupants to local hospitals.

The vehicle, a 1999 Honda Civic, was found to be reported stolen through the Topeka Police Department. The Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office and the Topeka Police Department are working together on the investigation of this stolen vehicle.

The driver William Sharon, 23, of Topeka was treated at a local hospital for his injuries and then booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of aggravated battery, reckless driving, interference with law enforcement, registration not assigned, no insurance, operate a vehicle without being licensed, improper driving on laned roadway, and unsafe speed for prevailing conditions.&nbsp; Additional requested charges are expected.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703041928867.png" alt="Sharon-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Sharon-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a car crash and follow up investigation.Just before 1p.m.&nbsp; Monday, the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center received a report of a single vehicle rollover injury auto accident in the 5000 block SW 61st Street in Topeka, according to Sheriff's Lt. Scott Wanamaker. Deputies arrived to find that three of the four adult occupants of the vehicle were injured from the accident. Two of the occupants sustained non-life threatening injuries and one sustained life threatening injuries. American Medical response transported all three of the injured occupants to local hospitals.The vehicle, a 1999 Honda Civic, was found to be reported stolen through the Topeka Police Department. The Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office and the Topeka Police Department are working together on the investigation of this stolen vehicle.The driver William Sharon, 23, of Topeka was treated at a local hospital for his injuries and then booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of aggravated battery, reckless driving, interference with law enforcement, registration not assigned, no insurance, operate a vehicle without being licensed, improper driving on laned roadway, and unsafe speed for prevailing conditions.&nbsp; Additional requested charges are expected.

Kansas man driving stolen car moved from hospital to jail

MCPHERSON COUNTY— A Canton-Galva school teacher succumbed to injuries she suffered in a car accident this past Friday.

According to a social media post from the school district, Mrs. Ashley Austin, the agriculture education teacher and FFA advisor at Canton-Galva High School died Tuesday night.

The accident happened Friday morning at around 7:40 a.m. at Highway 56 and 24th Avenue.

According to Superintendent Jim Struber USD 419 Canton-Galva will not have school - both the elementary and JSHS - on Thursday, Dec. 21, 2023.

The school year will start back up in January with teacher in-service on Jan. 3 and the first day with students Jan. 4.

MCPHERSON COUNTY— A Canton-Galva school teacher succumbed to injuries she suffered in a car accident this past Friday.According to a social media post from the school district, Mrs. Ashley Austin, the agriculture education teacher and FFA advisor at Canton-Galva High School died Tuesday night.The accident happened Friday morning at around 7:40 a.m. at Highway 56 and 24th Avenue.According to Superintendent Jim Struber USD 419 Canton-Galva will not have school - both the elementary and JSHS - on Thursday, Dec. 21, 2023.The school year will start back up in January with teacher in-service on Jan. 3 and the first day with students Jan. 4.

Kansas teacher dies from injuries in car accident

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Civil rights organizations on Tuesday filed a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-texas-border-8c86bc6c20a7c30d6127b2413b8688fc">new Texas law</a>&nbsp;that would allow police to arrest migrants who cross the border illegally and permit local judges to order them to leave the country.

The lawsuit, filed in federal court in Austin, argues that the measure that is set to take effect in March is unconstitutional because the federal government has sole authority over immigration.

The American Civil Liberties Union, its Texas branch, and the Texas Civil Rights Project sued less than 24 hours after Republican Gov. Greg Abbott signed the measure during a ceremony on the U.S.-Mexico border in Brownsville.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702952665492.png" alt="Gov. Greg Abbott signed three bills into law at a border wall construction site in Brownsville, Texas on Monday, Dec. 18, 2023, that will broaden his border security plans and add funding for more infrastructure to deter illegal immigration. (AP Photo/Valerie Gonzalez)" />
 <figcaption>Gov. Greg Abbott signed three bills into law at a border wall construction site in Brownsville, Texas on Monday, Dec. 18, 2023, that will broaden his border security plans and add funding for more infrastructure to deter illegal immigration. (AP Photo/Valerie Gonzalez)</figcaption>
 </figure>By Associated PressAUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Civil rights organizations on Tuesday filed a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-texas-border-8c86bc6c20a7c30d6127b2413b8688fc">new Texas law</a>&nbsp;that would allow police to arrest migrants who cross the border illegally and permit local judges to order them to leave the country.The lawsuit, filed in federal court in Austin, argues that the measure that is set to take effect in March is unconstitutional because the federal government has sole authority over immigration.The American Civil Liberties Union, its Texas branch, and the Texas Civil Rights Project sued less than 24 hours after Republican Gov. Greg Abbott signed the measure during a ceremony on the U.S.-Mexico border in Brownsville.The civil rights groups filed the lawsuit on behalf of El Paso County and two immigrant aid groups seeking to block enforcement of the measure, known as SB 4, and declare it unlawful.“S.B. 4 creates a new state system to regulate immigration that completely bypasses and conflicts with the federal system,” the lawsuit states.The lawsuit was filed against the head of the Texas Department of Public Safety, whose troopers could arrest migrants, and the El Paso County district attorney, whose office would potentially prosecute cases in that border community.A DPS spokesperson declined to comment in an email Tuesday, citing the pending litigation. A person who answered the phone in Hicks’ office said he was not available and had no immediate comment.Abbott and other Texas Republicans who support the measure say President Joe Biden isn’t doing enough to control the 1,950-mile (3,149-kilometer) southern border.“In his absence, Texas has the constitutional authority to secure our border through historic laws like SB 4,” Abbott said in an email Tuesday, adding that he was willing to take the case to the Supreme Court.White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre criticized the law, but wouldn’t say whether the Justice Department would also challenge it.“This is an extreme law that will not and does not make the communities in Texas safer,” Jean-Pierre said. She added that the purpose of the law was to “demonize immigrants and also dehumanize immigrants” and said “communities should not be individually targeted and put into harm’s way.”According to Tuesday’s lawsuit, DPS Director Steve McGraw told lawmakers that his agency estimates approximately 72,000 arrests will be made each year under the measure.The law comes as the U.S.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/arizona-border-wall-breaches-asylum-immigration-beddd2ca0ffd02884ce0d0ad1785f538">is seeing an increase in illegal border crossings.</a>&nbsp;Customs and Border Patrol acting commissioner Troy Miller called the number of daily arrivals “unprecedented,” as illegal crossings have topped 10,000 on some days this month.The measure allows any Texas law enforcement officer to arrest people who are suspected of entering the country illegally. Once in custody, they could either agree to a Texas judge’s order to leave the U.S. or be prosecuted on misdemeanor charges of illegal entry. Migrants who don’t leave could face arrest again under more serious felony charges.Opponents have called it the most dramatic attempt by a state to police immigration since a 2010 Arizona law — denounced by critics as the “Show Me Your Papers” bill — that was largely&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/57fd255191214d54b420a39a96b82451">struck down</a>&nbsp;by the U.S. Supreme Court. The lawsuit cites the 2012 Supreme Court decision on the Arizona law, which stated the federal government has exclusive power over immigration.“The bill overrides bedrock constitutional principles and flouts federal immigration law while harming Texans, in particular Brown and Black communities," Adriana Piñon, legal director of the ACLU of Texas, said in a statement.Earlier Tuesday, ACLU affiliates in Oklahoma, New Mexico, Arkansas, Louisiana, Arizona, Texas, and San Diego and Imperial Counties in California issued a travel advisory warning of a possible threat to travelers’ civil and constitutional rights violations when passing through Texas.