BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after an arrest in Barton County.

Just before 10:30p.m. November 27, police&nbsp;contacted 41-year-old Laveta Elam in the 200 block of Main Street in Great Bend, according to a statement from police.

Barton County Communications confirmed Elam to have an outstanding warrant for failure to appear. While being taken into custody, Elam refused to comply with the Officer's directives, and actively resisted arrest. 

Elam was ultimately arrested and transported to the Barton County Jail. While at the Barton County Jail, narcotics were located, hidden on Elam's person. 

Elam was booked into jail on requested charges of Resisting Arrest, Trafficking Contraband into a Correctional Facility, and the Failure to Appear warrant.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764634799282.png" alt="Elam-photo Barton County" />
 <figcaption>Elam-photo Barton County</figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after an arrest in Barton County.Just before 10:30p.m. November 27, police&nbsp;contacted 41-year-old Laveta Elam in the 200 block of Main Street in Great Bend, according to a statement from police.Barton County Communications confirmed Elam to have an outstanding warrant for failure to appear. While being taken into custody, Elam refused to comply with the Officer's directives, and actively resisted arrest. Elam was ultimately arrested and transported to the Barton County Jail. While at the Barton County Jail, narcotics were located, hidden on Elam's person. Elam was booked into jail on requested charges of Resisting Arrest, Trafficking Contraband into a Correctional Facility, and the Failure to Appear warrant.

Kan. woman hid her illegal drugs when she was booked into jail

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A suspect accused in a deadly hit-and-run in Wichita faced a judge for the first time last week. 

Chance Flores-Leach, 27, Wichita, was charged with unintentional but reckless second-degree murder and leaving the scene of a fatal accident, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

Just after 6:30 p.m. on Nov. 22, officers responded to a call about a pedestrian struck near Central and Hillside in Wichita, according to a media release from Wichita Police. First responders found a man who had been struck by multiple vehicles. Wichita Fire Department personnel extricated the victim and took him to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased.

Initial investigation indicated the pedestrian was hit by three different vehicles. Two drivers stayed at the scene and cooperated with investigators. The third vehicle fled but was later located by officers. The driver, identified as Flores-Leach was initially outstanding but was arrested and booked into the Sedgwick County Jail. He is being held on bonds totaling $200,000, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763948742947.png" alt="View of the crash scene -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>View of the crash scene -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A suspect accused in a deadly hit-and-run in Wichita faced a judge for the first time last week. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763983059541.png" alt="FLORES-LEACH photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>FLORES-LEACH photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>Chance Flores-Leach, 27, Wichita, was charged with unintentional but reckless second-degree murder and leaving the scene of a fatal accident, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.Just after 6:30 p.m. on Nov. 22, officers responded to a call about a pedestrian struck near Central and Hillside in Wichita, according to a media release from Wichita Police. First responders found a man who had been struck by multiple vehicles. Wichita Fire Department personnel extricated the victim and took him to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased.Initial investigation indicated the pedestrian was hit by three different vehicles. Two drivers stayed at the scene and cooperated with investigators. The third vehicle fled but was later located by officers. The driver, identified as Flores-Leach was initially outstanding but was arrested and booked into the Sedgwick County Jail. He is being held on bonds totaling $200,000, according to online jail records.

Kansas man in deadly hit-and-run faces a judge

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect for allegedly selling drugs near a school.

Just after 1p.m. November 28, 2025, around 1 p.m., the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office Drug Enforcement Unit conducted a traffic stop in the 2900 block of SE Freemont Street on a black 2015 Volkswagen, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

A subsequent narcotics related search warrant was then conducted in the 3200 block of SE Bryant Street.

During the investigation, distribution amounts of illegal narcotics were located. Jason D. Sweet, 43, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges: of Distribute opiate/narcotic/certain stimulant/heroin within 1000’ of a school, Distribute/possess with intent drug paraphernalia to a minor or within 1000’ of a school, Distribute/possess with intent to distribute marijuana within 1000’ of a school and Possession of a hallucinogenic drug

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763589462944.png" alt="Sweet photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Sweet photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect for allegedly selling drugs near a school.Just after 1p.m. November 28, 2025, around 1 p.m., the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office Drug Enforcement Unit conducted a traffic stop in the 2900 block of SE Freemont Street on a black 2015 Volkswagen, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.A subsequent narcotics related search warrant was then conducted in the 3200 block of SE Bryant Street.During the investigation, distribution amounts of illegal narcotics were located. Jason D. Sweet, 43, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges: of Distribute opiate/narcotic/certain stimulant/heroin within 1000’ of a school, Distribute/possess with intent drug paraphernalia to a minor or within 1000’ of a school, Distribute/possess with intent to distribute marijuana within 1000’ of a school and Possession of a hallucinogenic drug

Kansas man accused of selling meth near a school

Salina law enforcement arrested two suspects that were connected to two different burglaries at Salina businesses.

According to the Salina Police Department (SPD) on Sunday into Monday, November 24, two burglaries occurred at Acoustic Sounds (605 W North St) and Bishop Street Tavern (717 Bishop St).&nbsp;

Stolen from Acoustic Sounds, was a zebra brand scanner and miscellaneous work tools. An undisclosed amount of alcohol was stolen from Bishop Street Tavern.

Salina Police conducted a search warrant at a storage unit&nbsp;on 400 block of north 9th, and recovered the scanner and tools that were stolen.&nbsp;

Afterwards, officers were dispatched to the Budget King Motel (809 N. Broadway) on Tuesday, November 25 and arrested two suspects connected to the burglaries.

Arrested was 25-year old, Joseph Mastin and a 15-year old male.

Mastin was booked into the Saline County Jail for the requested charges of Burglary x2, Theft x2 and Contributing to a Child's Misconduct.

The juvenile was transported to a Juvenile Detention Center.

Salina PostSalina law enforcement arrested two suspects that were connected to two different burglaries at Salina businesses.According to the Salina Police Department (SPD) on Sunday into Monday, November 24, two burglaries occurred at Acoustic Sounds (605 W North St) and Bishop Street Tavern (717 Bishop St).&nbsp;Stolen from Acoustic Sounds, was a zebra brand scanner and miscellaneous work tools. An undisclosed amount of alcohol was stolen from Bishop Street Tavern.Salina Police conducted a search warrant at a storage unit&nbsp;on 400 block of north 9th, and recovered the scanner and tools that were stolen.&nbsp;Afterwards, officers were dispatched to the Budget King Motel (809 N. Broadway) on Tuesday, November 25 and arrested two suspects connected to the burglaries.Arrested was 25-year old, Joseph Mastin and a 15-year old male.Mastin was booked into the Saline County Jail for the requested charges of Burglary x2, Theft x2 and Contributing to a Child's Misconduct.The juvenile was transported to a Juvenile Detention Center.

Two suspects connected to two different business burglaries arrested 

FINNEY COUNTY —A Garden City woman was arrested&nbsp; after the SUV she was driving struck a church building in Garden City.

Around 1:25 a.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to the 300 block of E. Campbell Street in Garden City for a reported injury accident, according to a media release.

First responders found a GMC Suburban had struck the north wall of Garden Valley Church. The investigation revealed that the driver, identified as Chelby Wilson, 45, had been traveling northbound on 3rd Street when she nearly struck a parked vehicle. 

In attempting to avoid a collision, Wilson overcorrected, the SUV jumped a curb, and struck both a stop sign and a fire hydrant before the vehicle came to rest against the church building. 

Further investigation determined Wilson was allegedly driving under the influence, and she was arrested and booked into the Finney County Jail on a requested charge of driving under the influence. No injuries were reported from the incident.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764439556491.png" alt="Photo Garden City police" />
 <figcaption>Photo Garden City police</figcaption>
 </figure>FINNEY COUNTY —A Garden City woman was arrested&nbsp; after the SUV she was driving struck a church building in Garden City.Around 1:25 a.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to the 300 block of E. Campbell Street in Garden City for a reported injury accident, according to a media release.First responders found a GMC Suburban had struck the north wall of Garden Valley Church. The investigation revealed that the driver, identified as Chelby Wilson, 45, had been traveling northbound on 3rd Street when she nearly struck a parked vehicle. In attempting to avoid a collision, Wilson overcorrected, the SUV jumped a curb, and struck both a stop sign and a fire hydrant before the vehicle came to rest against the church building. Further investigation determined Wilson was allegedly driving under the influence, and she was arrested and booked into the Finney County Jail on a requested charge of driving under the influence. No injuries were reported from the incident.

Woman arrested after SUV struck fire hydrant, church in SW Kansas

SHAWNEE COUNTY —A man accused of kidnapping his nephew after killing his sister and father has been deemed unfit to stand trial, according to Shawnee County District Court records.

Christopher Barnstall, 32, was charged with&nbsp; first degree murder and kidnapping in the deaths of&nbsp; 55-year-old Sean Thornton, and 29-year-old Ashley Brown in July

On August 30, Christopher K. Barnshaw, 32, was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections, according to online jail records.

He was being held on a $10,000,000 bond on requested charges of Murder in the 1st degree; Intentional and premeditated, Aggravated burglary; Dwelling for felony, theft, DV, or sexually motivated crime and Endangering A Child and Kidnapping; In Flight Or The Commission Of Any Crime, according to online jail records.

Just after noon on July 22, police in Mattoon, Illinois, were notified that a suspect in a kidnapping incident in Topeka was possibly in their city, according to a media release from police.

Police in Topeka reported that Barshaw was believed to be a suspect in the death of a man and woman the 500 Block of NE Wabash in Topeka, according to police spokesperson Daniel Garrett. Barnshaw was also believed to have taken a child of one of the victims and fled the area. He was reported to be driving a Lexus passenger vehicle bearing Kansas License 4003AHF.

At 12:16p.m. a police officer in Mattoon, who was actively on a traffic stop on Route 16 observed the suspect vehicle pass him.&nbsp; The officer cleared from the traffic stop and began following the suspect in the Lexus eastboun toward Charleston, Illinois. After several other officers arrived in the area, they conducted a traffic stop on the suspect vehicle at the intersection of Route 16 and Beechtree Road.&nbsp; Barnshaw was take into custody without incident.&nbsp;&nbsp;

During the arrest, officers found a firearm concealed on Barnshaw.&nbsp; The 2-year-old boy who was the subject of the Amber Alert was in the back seat unharmed.

Barnstall is due back in court in February, according to the Shawnee County District Attorney's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1756762591638.png" alt="Barnshaw-photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Barnshaw-photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —A man accused of kidnapping his nephew after killing his sister and father has been deemed unfit to stand trial, according to Shawnee County District Court records.Christopher Barnstall, 32, was charged with&nbsp; first degree murder and kidnapping in the deaths of&nbsp; 55-year-old Sean Thornton, and 29-year-old Ashley Brown in JulyOn August 30, Christopher K. Barnshaw, 32, was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections, according to online jail records.He was being held on a $10,000,000 bond on requested charges of Murder in the 1st degree; Intentional and premeditated, Aggravated burglary; Dwelling for felony, theft, DV, or sexually motivated crime and Endangering A Child and Kidnapping; In Flight Or The Commission Of Any Crime, according to online jail records.Just after noon on July 22, police in Mattoon, Illinois, were notified that a suspect in a kidnapping incident in Topeka was possibly in their city, according to a media release from police.Police in Topeka reported that Barshaw was believed to be a suspect in the death of a man and woman the 500 Block of NE Wabash in Topeka, according to police spokesperson Daniel Garrett. Barnshaw was also believed to have taken a child of one of the victims and fled the area. He was reported to be driving a Lexus passenger vehicle bearing Kansas License 4003AHF.At 12:16p.m. a police officer in Mattoon, who was actively on a traffic stop on Route 16 observed the suspect vehicle pass him.&nbsp; The officer cleared from the traffic stop and began following the suspect in the Lexus eastboun toward Charleston, Illinois. After several other officers arrived in the area, they conducted a traffic stop on the suspect vehicle at the intersection of Route 16 and Beechtree Road.&nbsp; Barnshaw was take into custody without incident.&nbsp;&nbsp;During the arrest, officers found a firearm concealed on Barnshaw.&nbsp; The 2-year-old boy who was the subject of the Amber Alert was in the back seat unharmed.Barnstall is due back in court in February, according to the Shawnee County District Attorney's office.----------<figure>
 <img src="https://ads.empowerlocal.co/adserve/;MID=181918;type=e959fb862;placementID=3077234;setID=524197;channelID=0;CID=0;BID=523385794;TAID=0;place=0;rnd=5958384218;psrtype=api;referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fhutchpost.com%2Fposts%2F63b62d04-f018-4ba4-849f-917965af0f16;mt=1756762384680849;hc=39ddbd97685f0ba9baa9f944a5544d668f26b7ea" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Court rules on Kansas Amber Alert suspect in double-murder 

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a traffic stop in Shawnee County.

Just before 8a.m.&nbsp;November 27, a sheriff's deputy conducted a traffic stop on a blue 1998 Chevrolet HHR, with an expired license plate that did not belong on that vehicle, near SW 18th Street and SW Urish Road, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

During the investigation, it was determined that the driver had a suspended driver’s license and illegal narcotics were located. Faye A. Bean, 43, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of&nbsp;&nbsp;Possession of an opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body,&nbsp;&nbsp;Vehicles; operate vehicle without registration or with expired tag, Driving while license suspended, No vehicle liability insurance and License carried/exhibited

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764252481808.png" alt="Bean photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Bean photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a traffic stop in Shawnee County.Just before 8a.m.&nbsp;November 27, a sheriff's deputy conducted a traffic stop on a blue 1998 Chevrolet HHR, with an expired license plate that did not belong on that vehicle, near SW 18th Street and SW Urish Road, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.During the investigation, it was determined that the driver had a suspended driver’s license and illegal narcotics were located. Faye A. Bean, 43, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of&nbsp;&nbsp;Possession of an opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body,&nbsp;&nbsp;Vehicles; operate vehicle without registration or with expired tag, Driving while license suspended, No vehicle liability insurance and License carried/exhibited

Sheriff: Kansas woman caught with drugs during traffic stop

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/jack-brook">JACK BROOK</a> Associated Press

A copy of the first Superman issue, unearthed by three brothers cleaning out their late mother’s attic, netted $9.12 million this month at a Texas auction house which says it is the most expensive comic book ever sold.

The brothers discovered the comic book in a cardboard box beneath layers of brittle newspapers, dust and cobwebs in their deceased mother’s San Francisco home last year, alongside a handful of other rare comics that she and her sibling had collected on the cusp of World War II.

She had told her children she had a valuable comic book collection hidden away, but they had never seen it until they put her house up for sale and decided to comb through her belongings for heirlooms, said Lon Allen, vice president of comics at Heritage Auctions. The brothers uncovered the box of comics and sent a message to the auction company, leading Allen to fly out to San Francisco earlier this year to inspect their copy of “Superman No. 1" and show it to other experts for appraisal.

“It was just in an attic, sitting in a box, could have easily been thrown away, could’ve easily been destroyed in a thousand different ways,” Allen said. “A lot of people got excited because it’s just every factor in collecting that you could possibly want all rolled into one.”

The “Superman No. 1" comic, released in 1939 by Detective Comics Inc., is one of a small number of copies known to be in existence and is in excellent condition. The Man of Steel was the first superhero to enter pop culture, helping boost the copy’s value among collectors, alongside its improbable backstory, Allen said.

The previous record for the world’s most expensive comic book had been set last year, when an “Action Comics No. 1" — which first introduced Superman to the world as part of an anthology — sold for $6 million. In 2022, another Superman No. 1 sold for $5.3 million.

A small, in-house advertisement in the comic book helped experts identify it as originating from the first edition of 500,000 Superman No. 1 copies ever printed. Allen estimates there are fewer than 500 in existence today.

The copy was not given any special protection, but the cool Northern California climate helped preserve it, leaving it with a firm spine, vibrant colors and crisp corners, according to a statement from Dallas-based Heritage Auctions. The copy was rated a 9.0 out of 10 by comics grading company CGC, meaning it had only the slightest signs of wear and aging.

The three brothers, in their 50s and 60s, did not wish to be identified due to the windfall involved nor did the buyer of the comic book, according to the auction house.

“This isn’t simply a story about old paper and ink,” one brother said in a statement released by the auction house. “This was never just about a collectible. This is a testament to memory, family and the unexpected ways the past finds its way back to us.”

Brook is a corps member for The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reportforamerica.org/" target="_blank">Report for America</a>&nbsp;is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/jack-brook">JACK BROOK</a> Associated PressA copy of the first Superman issue, unearthed by three brothers cleaning out their late mother’s attic, netted $9.12 million this month at a Texas auction house which says it is the most expensive comic book ever sold.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">A copy of the first Superman issue, unearthed by three brothers cleaning out their late mother&#39;s attic, netted $9.12 million this month at a Texas auction house which says it is the most expensive comic book ever sold. <a href="https://t.co/08bL1zTVZv">pic.twitter.com/08bL1zTVZv</a>&mdash; The Associated Press (@AP) <a href="https://twitter.com/AP/status/1993120621107048550?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The brothers discovered the comic book in a cardboard box beneath layers of brittle newspapers, dust and cobwebs in their deceased mother’s San Francisco home last year, alongside a handful of other rare comics that she and her sibling had collected on the cusp of World War II.She had told her children she had a valuable comic book collection hidden away, but they had never seen it until they put her house up for sale and decided to comb through her belongings for heirlooms, said Lon Allen, vice president of comics at Heritage Auctions. The brothers uncovered the box of comics and sent a message to the auction company, leading Allen to fly out to San Francisco earlier this year to inspect their copy of “Superman No. 1" and show it to other experts for appraisal.“It was just in an attic, sitting in a box, could have easily been thrown away, could’ve easily been destroyed in a thousand different ways,” Allen said. “A lot of people got excited because it’s just every factor in collecting that you could possibly want all rolled into one.”The “Superman No. 1" comic, released in 1939 by Detective Comics Inc., is one of a small number of copies known to be in existence and is in excellent condition. The Man of Steel was the first superhero to enter pop culture, helping boost the copy’s value among collectors, alongside its improbable backstory, Allen said.The previous record for the world’s most expensive comic book had been set last year, when an “Action Comics No. 1" — which first introduced Superman to the world as part of an anthology — sold for $6 million. In 2022, another Superman No. 1 sold for $5.3 million.A small, in-house advertisement in the comic book helped experts identify it as originating from the first edition of 500,000 Superman No. 1 copies ever printed. Allen estimates there are fewer than 500 in existence today.The copy was not given any special protection, but the cool Northern California climate helped preserve it, leaving it with a firm spine, vibrant colors and crisp corners, according to a statement from Dallas-based Heritage Auctions. The copy was rated a 9.0 out of 10 by comics grading company CGC, meaning it had only the slightest signs of wear and aging.The three brothers, in their 50s and 60s, did not wish to be identified due to the windfall involved nor did the buyer of the comic book, according to the auction house.“This isn’t simply a story about old paper and ink,” one brother said in a statement released by the auction house. “This was never just about a collectible. This is a testament to memory, family and the unexpected ways the past finds its way back to us.”___Brook is a corps member for The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reportforamerica.org/" target="_blank">Report for America</a>&nbsp;is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.

Rare copy of ‘Superman No. 1' from 1939 sells for millions

NEW YORK (AP) —A judge on Wednesday dismissed the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/georgia-trump-election-indictment-fani-willis-b9000b28e65fc8ebe57f6f9cca5cc3ef">Georgia election interference case</a>&nbsp;against President Donald Trump and others, bringing an end to the last of four criminal cases filed against him that threatened to upend his finances and take away his freedom as he sought a return to the White House.

The Georgia dismissal came after a new prosecutor in the case&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/georgia-trump-election-indictment-fani-willis-b9000b28e65fc8ebe57f6f9cca5cc3ef">declined to pursue the charges</a>.

Since Trump’s reelection last year, four separate criminal cases — including his hush money conviction and federal allegations of election interference and illegally hoarding classified documents — have either been dropped, resolved or put aside. On the civil side, several high-profile lawsuits against Trump have been quietly working their way through the appeals process.

Here’s a look at some of Trump’s criminal and civil cases and where they stand now:

Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-trial-deliberations-jury-testimony-verdict-85558c6d08efb434d05b694364470aa0">became the first former U.S. president</a>&nbsp;convicted of felonies when a New York jury found him guilty in May 2024 of falsifying business records to cover up&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-trial-hush-money-opening-stormy-daniels-6beee9b99114898ee0dd60185d43bac5">a hush money payment to a porn actor</a>&nbsp;who said the two had sex.

Though Trump could have faced jail time, Manhattan Judge Juan M. Merchan in January&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-hush-money-sentencing-stormy-daniels-33e070bd3c1acb609bba13f23d784a3a">sentenced</a>&nbsp;him instead to what’s known as an unconditional discharge, leaving his conviction on the books but sparing him any punishment.

Trump was set to take office just days later, and Merchan said he had to respect Trump’s upcoming legal protections as president, even wishing him “Godspeed as you assume your second term in office.”

Trump is trying to get the conviction erased, a push that was given new life in November when a federal appeals court ordered a lower court&nbsp;<a href="https://ww3.ca2.uscourts.gov/decisions/isysquery/166b3213-136f-462d-b518-a40538e74103/1/doc/24-2299_opn.pdf#xml=https://ww3.ca2.uscourts.gov/decisions/isysquery/166b3213-136f-462d-b518-a40538e74103/1/hilite/" target="_blank">to reconsider its decision</a>&nbsp;to keep the case in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-hush-money-sentencing-new-york-immunity-a905207c7db9fc48d022d68ac6cc12e1">state court</a>&nbsp;instead of moving it to federal court.

In August 2023, Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-georgia-election-investigation-grand-jury-willis-d39562cedfc60d64948708de1b011ed3">charged Trump and 18 others</a>&nbsp;with participating in a scheme to illegally try to overturn his narrow loss to Democrat Joe Biden in the 2020 presidential election in Georgia.

Willis cited Trump’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mug-shot-donald-trump-indictment-839920116a244df3e55bdedf33820a80">January 2021 phone call</a>&nbsp;to Georgia’s secretary of state, an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/capitol-siege-joe-biden-presidential-elections-election-2020-electoral-college-311f88768b65f7196f52a4757dc162e4">effort to replace</a>&nbsp;Georgia’s Democratic presidential electors with ones who would vote for Trump, harassment of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/capitol-siege-2022-midterm-elections-georgia-election-recounts-5cffe294a372eb32dc68588784202314">Fulton County election worker</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-technology-lawsuits-donald-trump-voting-6a1324cc6cf45c95ca086a5c81617b15">unauthorized copying</a>&nbsp;of data and software from elections equipment.

But the case stalled over revelations Willis had been in a relationship with the man she appointed to prosecute it. A&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-fani-willis-georgia-election-indictment-removed-0aa6db3b7abed22eb08ed9323f687972">state appeals court in December</a>&nbsp;removed Willis from the case and the state Supreme Court later&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fani-willis-appeal-georgia-supreme-court-trump-7be50feee272612484490b53592e7e08">declined to hear her appeal</a>.

Pete Skandalakis, the executive director of the Prosecuting Attorneys’ Council of Georgia, took over the case in November after he said several prosecutors declined to take it. Fulton County Superior Court Judge Scott McAfee issued a brief order dismissing the case in its entirety Wednesday after Skandalakis said he has decided not to pursue it further.

Special counsel Jack Smith charged Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-indicted-jan-6-investigation-special-counsel-debb59bb7a4d9f93f7e2dace01feccdc">in August</a>&nbsp;2023 with conspiring to overturn the results of his election loss to President Joe Biden in the run-up to the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol. Prosecutors allege Trump and his allies knowingly promoted&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-2020-election-lies-debunked-4fc26546b07962fdbf9d66e739fbb50d">election fraud lies</a>&nbsp;in a bid to push state officials to overturn Biden’s win and pressure Vice President Mike Pence to disrupt the ceremonial counting of electoral votes.

But Smith moved&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-capitol-riot-justice-department-jack-smith-d6172cf98d8e03e099571c908267456c">to drop the case</a>&nbsp;after Trump won reelection in November. Longstanding Justice Department policy says sitting presidents cannot face&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/projects/trump-investigations-civil-criminal-tracker/">criminal prosecution</a>.

In a separate prosecution,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-justice-department-indictment-classified-documents-miami-8315a5b23c18f27083ed64eef21efff3">Smith charged Trump in June 2023</a>&nbsp;with illegally retaining classified documents he took from the White House to Mar-a-Lago after he left office in January 2021, and then obstructing government demands to give them back. Prosecutors filed additional charges the following month, accusing Trump of showing a Pentagon “plan of attack” to visitors at his golf club in New Jersey.

Smith also moved to drop that case after Trump’s election victory.

In May 2023, a federal jury found that Trump sexually abused writer E. Jean Carroll in the mid-1990s and later defamed her. The jury&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-rape-carroll-trial-fe68259a4b98bb3947d42af9ec83d7db">awarded Carroll $5 million</a>.

In January 2024, a second jury&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-carroll-defamation-trial-e4ea8b93cdeb29857864ffd8d14be888">awarded Carroll an additional $83.3 million</a>&nbsp;in damages for comments Trump had made about her while he was president, finding that they were defamatory. A federal appeals court panel&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-carroll-appeal-award-d587004df6f7c46ec4a17b563a38bfa9">upheld the jury’s finding</a>&nbsp;in September. Trump has since asked the full appellate court to hear arguments and reconsider the ruling.

Trump also appealed the first jury decision, but a federal appeals court in December&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-carroll-lawsuit-defamation-trial-78e4196024539653a6de492312770ff2">upheld</a>&nbsp;it and then&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-e-jean-carroll-sexual-abuse-appeal-8e2db7bdb881ff0b9353b6fb17750f48">declined in June to reconsider</a>. In November, Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-carroll-abuse-defamation-supreme-court-be62982deb6821b62e0471f5bea3e64d">asked the Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;to hear his appeal.

New York Attorney General Letitia James&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-deposition-new-york-lawsuit-letitia-james-8071b5cff84c1eaad7a4dc02f71191f1">sued Trump</a>&nbsp;in 2022, alleging he habitually exaggerated his wealth and the value of marquee assets like Trump Tower and Mar-a-Lago.

In February 2024, a New York judge&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-civil-fraud-verdict-engoron-244024861f0df886543c157c9fc5b3e4">ordered Trump to pay $355 million in penalties</a>, but an appeals court in August&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-fraud-lawsuit-appeal-db39d93feff322eeeeedbc1ff75ccaf3">threw out</a>&nbsp;that massive financial penalty while narrowly endorsing a lower court’s finding that he engaged in fraud by padding his wealth on financial statements provided to lenders and insurers.

The appeals court judges ruled that the penalty — which had soared to $515 million with interest tacked on each day — violated the U.S. Constitution’s ban on excessive fines. At the same time, they left in place other punishments, including bans on Trump and his two eldest sons from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-fraud-letitia-james-new-york-engoron-38bc3a7f2ccb22555c026e9bf70fd5bb">serving in corporate leadership</a>&nbsp;for a few years.

James&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-new-york-fraud-penalty-billions-appeal-b613dacb27d64644bde94fe96da1cc9d">filed a notice of appeal</a>&nbsp;with the state’s highest court, the Court of Appeals, in September.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713921187107.png" alt="File photo Donald Trump in court -image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>File photo Donald Trump in court -image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) —A judge on Wednesday dismissed the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/georgia-trump-election-indictment-fani-willis-b9000b28e65fc8ebe57f6f9cca5cc3ef">Georgia election interference case</a>&nbsp;against President Donald Trump and others, bringing an end to the last of four criminal cases filed against him that threatened to upend his finances and take away his freedom as he sought a return to the White House.The Georgia dismissal came after a new prosecutor in the case&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/georgia-trump-election-indictment-fani-willis-b9000b28e65fc8ebe57f6f9cca5cc3ef">declined to pursue the charges</a>.Since Trump’s reelection last year, four separate criminal cases — including his hush money conviction and federal allegations of election interference and illegally hoarding classified documents — have either been dropped, resolved or put aside. On the civil side, several high-profile lawsuits against Trump have been quietly working their way through the appeals process.Here’s a look at some of Trump’s criminal and civil cases and where they stand now:<h2>New York hush money case</h2>Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-trial-deliberations-jury-testimony-verdict-85558c6d08efb434d05b694364470aa0">became the first former U.S. president</a>&nbsp;convicted of felonies when a New York jury found him guilty in May 2024 of falsifying business records to cover up&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-trial-hush-money-opening-stormy-daniels-6beee9b99114898ee0dd60185d43bac5">a hush money payment to a porn actor</a>&nbsp;who said the two had sex.Though Trump could have faced jail time, Manhattan Judge Juan M. Merchan in January&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-hush-money-sentencing-stormy-daniels-33e070bd3c1acb609bba13f23d784a3a">sentenced</a>&nbsp;him instead to what’s known as an unconditional discharge, leaving his conviction on the books but sparing him any punishment.Trump was set to take office just days later, and Merchan said he had to respect Trump’s upcoming legal protections as president, even wishing him “Godspeed as you assume your second term in office.”Trump is trying to get the conviction erased, a push that was given new life in November when a federal appeals court ordered a lower court&nbsp;<a href="https://ww3.ca2.uscourts.gov/decisions/isysquery/166b3213-136f-462d-b518-a40538e74103/1/doc/24-2299_opn.pdf#xml=https://ww3.ca2.uscourts.gov/decisions/isysquery/166b3213-136f-462d-b518-a40538e74103/1/hilite/" target="_blank">to reconsider its decision</a>&nbsp;to keep the case in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-hush-money-sentencing-new-york-immunity-a905207c7db9fc48d022d68ac6cc12e1">state court</a>&nbsp;instead of moving it to federal court.<h2>Georgia election interference case</h2>In August 2023, Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-georgia-election-investigation-grand-jury-willis-d39562cedfc60d64948708de1b011ed3">charged Trump and 18 others</a>&nbsp;with participating in a scheme to illegally try to overturn his narrow loss to Democrat Joe Biden in the 2020 presidential election in Georgia.Willis cited Trump’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mug-shot-donald-trump-indictment-839920116a244df3e55bdedf33820a80">January 2021 phone call</a>&nbsp;to Georgia’s secretary of state, an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/capitol-siege-joe-biden-presidential-elections-election-2020-electoral-college-311f88768b65f7196f52a4757dc162e4">effort to replace</a>&nbsp;Georgia’s Democratic presidential electors with ones who would vote for Trump, harassment of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/capitol-siege-2022-midterm-elections-georgia-election-recounts-5cffe294a372eb32dc68588784202314">Fulton County election worker</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-technology-lawsuits-donald-trump-voting-6a1324cc6cf45c95ca086a5c81617b15">unauthorized copying</a>&nbsp;of data and software from elections equipment.But the case stalled over revelations Willis had been in a relationship with the man she appointed to prosecute it. A&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-fani-willis-georgia-election-indictment-removed-0aa6db3b7abed22eb08ed9323f687972">state appeals court in December</a>&nbsp;removed Willis from the case and the state Supreme Court later&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fani-willis-appeal-georgia-supreme-court-trump-7be50feee272612484490b53592e7e08">declined to hear her appeal</a>.Pete Skandalakis, the executive director of the Prosecuting Attorneys’ Council of Georgia, took over the case in November after he said several prosecutors declined to take it. Fulton County Superior Court Judge Scott McAfee issued a brief order dismissing the case in its entirety Wednesday after Skandalakis said he has decided not to pursue it further.<h2>Federal election case</h2>Special counsel Jack Smith charged Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-indicted-jan-6-investigation-special-counsel-debb59bb7a4d9f93f7e2dace01feccdc">in August</a>&nbsp;2023 with conspiring to overturn the results of his election loss to President Joe Biden in the run-up to the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol. Prosecutors allege Trump and his allies knowingly promoted&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-2020-election-lies-debunked-4fc26546b07962fdbf9d66e739fbb50d">election fraud lies</a>&nbsp;in a bid to push state officials to overturn Biden’s win and pressure Vice President Mike Pence to disrupt the ceremonial counting of electoral votes.But Smith moved&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-capitol-riot-justice-department-jack-smith-d6172cf98d8e03e099571c908267456c">to drop the case</a>&nbsp;after Trump won reelection in November. Longstanding Justice Department policy says sitting presidents cannot face&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/projects/trump-investigations-civil-criminal-tracker/">criminal prosecution</a>.<h2>Classified documents case</h2>In a separate prosecution,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-justice-department-indictment-classified-documents-miami-8315a5b23c18f27083ed64eef21efff3">Smith charged Trump in June 2023</a>&nbsp;with illegally retaining classified documents he took from the White House to Mar-a-Lago after he left office in January 2021, and then obstructing government demands to give them back. Prosecutors filed additional charges the following month, accusing Trump of showing a Pentagon “plan of attack” to visitors at his golf club in New Jersey.Smith also moved to drop that case after Trump’s election victory.<h2>Sexual assault lawsuits</h2>In May 2023, a federal jury found that Trump sexually abused writer E. Jean Carroll in the mid-1990s and later defamed her. The jury&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-rape-carroll-trial-fe68259a4b98bb3947d42af9ec83d7db">awarded Carroll $5 million</a>.In January 2024, a second jury&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-carroll-defamation-trial-e4ea8b93cdeb29857864ffd8d14be888">awarded Carroll an additional $83.3 million</a>&nbsp;in damages for comments Trump had made about her while he was president, finding that they were defamatory. A federal appeals court panel&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-carroll-appeal-award-d587004df6f7c46ec4a17b563a38bfa9">upheld the jury’s finding</a>&nbsp;in September. Trump has since asked the full appellate court to hear arguments and reconsider the ruling.Trump also appealed the first jury decision, but a federal appeals court in December&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-carroll-lawsuit-defamation-trial-78e4196024539653a6de492312770ff2">upheld</a>&nbsp;it and then&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-e-jean-carroll-sexual-abuse-appeal-8e2db7bdb881ff0b9353b6fb17750f48">declined in June to reconsider</a>. In November, Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-carroll-abuse-defamation-supreme-court-be62982deb6821b62e0471f5bea3e64d">asked the Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;to hear his appeal.<h2>New York civil fraud lawsuit</h2>New York Attorney General Letitia James&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-deposition-new-york-lawsuit-letitia-james-8071b5cff84c1eaad7a4dc02f71191f1">sued Trump</a>&nbsp;in 2022, alleging he habitually exaggerated his wealth and the value of marquee assets like Trump Tower and Mar-a-Lago.In February 2024, a New York judge&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-civil-fraud-verdict-engoron-244024861f0df886543c157c9fc5b3e4">ordered Trump to pay $355 million in penalties</a>, but an appeals court in August&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-fraud-lawsuit-appeal-db39d93feff322eeeeedbc1ff75ccaf3">threw out</a>&nbsp;that massive financial penalty while narrowly endorsing a lower court’s finding that he engaged in fraud by padding his wealth on financial statements provided to lenders and insurers.The appeals court judges ruled that the penalty — which had soared to $515 million with interest tacked on each day — violated the U.S. Constitution’s ban on excessive fines. At the same time, they left in place other punishments, including bans on Trump and his two eldest sons from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-fraud-letitia-james-new-york-engoron-38bc3a7f2ccb22555c026e9bf70fd5bb">serving in corporate leadership</a>&nbsp;for a few years.James&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-new-york-fraud-penalty-billions-appeal-b613dacb27d64644bde94fe96da1cc9d">filed a notice of appeal</a>&nbsp;with the state’s highest court, the Court of Appeals, in September.

 Here's where all the legal cases against Trump stand since his return to the White House

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect in connection with a domestic incident in Shawnee County

Just after 12:30 p.m., November 24, the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center was notified of a second domestic disturbance at a residence in the 6700 block of SW Fieldwood Drive, according to Deputy Abigail Christian. The first was reported around 11:30 a.m.

Shaun L. Kendall, 40, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the SNDOC on requested charges of&nbsp;Criminal possession of a weapon by felon and Stalking; reckless conduct causing fear person/family. He remains in custody on a $50,000 bond, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764252725979.png" alt="Kendall photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Kendall photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect in connection with a domestic incident in Shawnee CountyJust after 12:30 p.m., November 24, the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center was notified of a second domestic disturbance at a residence in the 6700 block of SW Fieldwood Drive, according to Deputy Abigail Christian. The first was reported around 11:30 a.m.Shaun L. Kendall, 40, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the SNDOC on requested charges of&nbsp;Criminal possession of a weapon by felon and Stalking; reckless conduct causing fear person/family. He remains in custody on a $50,000 bond, according to online jail records.

Kan. felon jailed after 2nd domestic incident within an hour

ATLANTA (AP) — The prosecutor who recently took over the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-georgia-election-investigation-grand-jury-willis-d39562cedfc60d64948708de1b011ed3">Georgia election interference case</a>&nbsp;against President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;and others said in a court filing Wednesday that he has decided not to pursue the case further.

Pete Skandalakis, the executive director of the Prosecuting Attorneys’ Council of Georgia, took over the case last month from Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis, who was removed over an “appearance of impropriety” created by a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-fani-willis-georgia-election-indictment-removed-0aa6db3b7abed22eb08ed9323f687972">romantic relationship</a>&nbsp;with the special prosecutor she chose to lead the case.

After Skandalakis’ filing, Fulton County Superior Court Judge Scott McAfee issued a one-paragraph order dismissing the case in its entirety.

<a href="https://s3.documentcloud.org/documents/26303252/23sc188947-request-for-dead-docketnolle-prosequi-by-district-attorney.pdf">Click here to read the full</a> motion document

It was unlikely that legal action against Trump could have moved forward while he is president. But 14 other defendants still faced charges, including former New York mayor and Trump attorney&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rudy-giuliani-dominion-voting-2020-election-trump-fb964cb109a66338f2d594c732f5d2f1">Rudy Giuliani</a>&nbsp;and former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows.

Steve Sadow, Trump’s lead attorney in Georgia, applauded the case’s dismissal: “The political persecution of President Trump by disqualified DA Fani Willis is finally over. This case should never have been brought. A fair and impartial prosecutor has put an end to this lawfare.”

After the Georgia Supreme Court in September declined to hear&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fani-willis-appeal-georgia-supreme-court-trump-7be50feee272612484490b53592e7e08">Willis’ appeal</a>&nbsp;of her disqualification, it fell to the Prosecuting Attorneys’ Council to find a new prosecutor. Skandalakis said last month that he reached out to several prosecutors, but they all declined to take on the case. McAfee set a Nov. 14 deadline for the appointment of a new prosecutor, so Skandalakis chose to appoint himself rather than allow the case to be dismissed right away.

He said Willis’ office had only recently delivered the case file — 101 boxes and an eight-terabyte hard drive — and he hadn’t had a chance to review everything yet. Citing the public’s “legitimate interest in the outcome of this case,” he said he wanted to assess the evidence and decide on the appropriate next steps.

Skandalakis, who has led the small, nonpartisan council since 2018, said in a court filing last month that he will get no extra pay for the case but that Fulton County will reimburse expenses. He previously spent about 25 years as the elected Republican district attorney for the Coweta Judicial Circuit, southwest of Atlanta.

Willis announced the sprawling indictment against&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-georgia-indictment-meadows-guiliani-084efc6796becef3714196cee3854cf6">Trump and 18 others</a>&nbsp;in August 2023, using the state’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/georgia-trump-election-investigation-indictment-rico-willis-2b18a1c1ed6a4ce22b1a2ca88ea861e3">anti-racketeering law</a>&nbsp;to allege a wide-ranging conspiracy to illegally overturn Trump’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-2020-joe-biden-donald-trump-georgia-elections-bb997641ca36805c0f53f406a3529d87">narrow loss</a>&nbsp;to Democrat Joe Biden in Georgia.

Defense attorneys sought Willis’ removal after one revealed in January 2024 that Willis had a romantic relationship with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-willis-wade-georgia-election-5d76abb5578308317306e7b2e610ac91">Nathan Wade, the special prosecutor</a>&nbsp;she hired to lead the case. The defense attorneys alleged a conflict of interest and said Willis profited from the case when Wade used his earnings to pay for vacations the pair took.

During&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fani-willis-hearing-trump-case-potential-conflict-c37fcf993ac33c150f3cb3e4a7a888db">an extraordinary hearing</a>&nbsp;the following month, Willis and Wade testified about the intimate details of their relationship. They said the romance didn’t begin until after Wade was hired and that they split the costs for vacations and other outings.

The judge rebuked Willis for a “tremendous lapse in judgment” but found no disqualifying conflict of interest, ruling&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fani-willis-wade-trump-georgia-election-takeaways-150a46abe71ee76da2c0050798a5d93e">she could stay on</a>&nbsp;the case if Wade resigned,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/georgia-election-indictment-fani-willis-trump-60b7dd9642fc9ef7c03d75980692334c">which he did</a>&nbsp;hours later.

Defense attorneys appealed, and the Georgia Court of Appeals&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-fani-willis-georgia-election-indictment-removed-0aa6db3b7abed22eb08ed9323f687972">removed Willis from the case</a>&nbsp;in December 2024, citing an “appearance of impropriety.” The state Supreme Court&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fani-willis-appeal-georgia-supreme-court-trump-7be50feee272612484490b53592e7e08">declined to hear Willis’ appeal</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692924558227.png" alt="Donald Trump as shown in his Fulton Co. Georgia booking photo from Aug. 2023" />
 <figcaption>Donald Trump as shown in his Fulton Co. Georgia booking photo from Aug. 2023</figcaption>
 </figure>ATLANTA (AP) — The prosecutor who recently took over the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-georgia-election-investigation-grand-jury-willis-d39562cedfc60d64948708de1b011ed3">Georgia election interference case</a>&nbsp;against President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;and others said in a court filing Wednesday that he has decided not to pursue the case further.Pete Skandalakis, the executive director of the Prosecuting Attorneys’ Council of Georgia, took over the case last month from Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis, who was removed over an “appearance of impropriety” created by a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-fani-willis-georgia-election-indictment-removed-0aa6db3b7abed22eb08ed9323f687972">romantic relationship</a>&nbsp;with the special prosecutor she chose to lead the case.After Skandalakis’ filing, Fulton County Superior Court Judge Scott McAfee issued a one-paragraph order dismissing the case in its entirety.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764173705082.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://s3.documentcloud.org/documents/26303252/23sc188947-request-for-dead-docketnolle-prosequi-by-district-attorney.pdf">Click here to read the full</a> motion documentIt was unlikely that legal action against Trump could have moved forward while he is president. But 14 other defendants still faced charges, including former New York mayor and Trump attorney&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rudy-giuliani-dominion-voting-2020-election-trump-fb964cb109a66338f2d594c732f5d2f1">Rudy Giuliani</a>&nbsp;and former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708029546187.png" alt="Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>Steve Sadow, Trump’s lead attorney in Georgia, applauded the case’s dismissal: “The political persecution of President Trump by disqualified DA Fani Willis is finally over. This case should never have been brought. A fair and impartial prosecutor has put an end to this lawfare.”After the Georgia Supreme Court in September declined to hear&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fani-willis-appeal-georgia-supreme-court-trump-7be50feee272612484490b53592e7e08">Willis’ appeal</a>&nbsp;of her disqualification, it fell to the Prosecuting Attorneys’ Council to find a new prosecutor. Skandalakis said last month that he reached out to several prosecutors, but they all declined to take on the case. McAfee set a Nov. 14 deadline for the appointment of a new prosecutor, so Skandalakis chose to appoint himself rather than allow the case to be dismissed right away.He said Willis’ office had only recently delivered the case file — 101 boxes and an eight-terabyte hard drive — and he hadn’t had a chance to review everything yet. Citing the public’s “legitimate interest in the outcome of this case,” he said he wanted to assess the evidence and decide on the appropriate next steps.Skandalakis, who has led the small, nonpartisan council since 2018, said in a court filing last month that he will get no extra pay for the case but that Fulton County will reimburse expenses. He previously spent about 25 years as the elected Republican district attorney for the Coweta Judicial Circuit, southwest of Atlanta.Willis announced the sprawling indictment against&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-georgia-indictment-meadows-guiliani-084efc6796becef3714196cee3854cf6">Trump and 18 others</a>&nbsp;in August 2023, using the state’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/georgia-trump-election-investigation-indictment-rico-willis-2b18a1c1ed6a4ce22b1a2ca88ea861e3">anti-racketeering law</a>&nbsp;to allege a wide-ranging conspiracy to illegally overturn Trump’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-2020-joe-biden-donald-trump-georgia-elections-bb997641ca36805c0f53f406a3529d87">narrow loss</a>&nbsp;to Democrat Joe Biden in Georgia.Defense attorneys sought Willis’ removal after one revealed in January 2024 that Willis had a romantic relationship with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-willis-wade-georgia-election-5d76abb5578308317306e7b2e610ac91">Nathan Wade, the special prosecutor</a>&nbsp;she hired to lead the case. The defense attorneys alleged a conflict of interest and said Willis profited from the case when Wade used his earnings to pay for vacations the pair took.During&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fani-willis-hearing-trump-case-potential-conflict-c37fcf993ac33c150f3cb3e4a7a888db">an extraordinary hearing</a>&nbsp;the following month, Willis and Wade testified about the intimate details of their relationship. They said the romance didn’t begin until after Wade was hired and that they split the costs for vacations and other outings.The judge rebuked Willis for a “tremendous lapse in judgment” but found no disqualifying conflict of interest, ruling&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fani-willis-wade-trump-georgia-election-takeaways-150a46abe71ee76da2c0050798a5d93e">she could stay on</a>&nbsp;the case if Wade resigned,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/georgia-election-indictment-fani-willis-trump-60b7dd9642fc9ef7c03d75980692334c">which he did</a>&nbsp;hours later.Defense attorneys appealed, and the Georgia Court of Appeals&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-fani-willis-georgia-election-indictment-removed-0aa6db3b7abed22eb08ed9323f687972">removed Willis from the case</a>&nbsp;in December 2024, citing an “appearance of impropriety.” The state Supreme Court&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fani-willis-appeal-georgia-supreme-court-trump-7be50feee272612484490b53592e7e08">declined to hear Willis’ appeal</a>.

Read the ruling: Trump's criminal case in Georgia dismissed

LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;Kansas redshirt senior quarterback Jalon Daniels is one of five finalists for the 15th&nbsp;Annual Pop Warner College Football Award, the organization announced on Tuesday. Established in 2010, the award honors a player who has made a positive impact on the field, in the classroom, and in the community, and who serves as a role model to Pop Warner’s young student-athletes.

Daniels, a native of Lawndale, Calif., is one of five finalists for the award and is joined by Tanner Wall (BYU), Josh Kattus (Kentucky), Aaron Graves (Iowa) and Adam Randall (Clemson).

Daniels is Kansas' first four-time team captain and was Kansas's first Big 12 Football Scholar Athlete of the Year in 2024. Daniels was recently named a finalist for the William V. Campbell Trophy, which is awarded to college football's premier scholar-athlete award that annually recognizes an individual as the absolute best in the nation for his combined academic success, football performance, and exemplary leadership. Daniels is also a semifinalist for the Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year Award.

Daniels has had a historic 2025 campaign, completing 188-of-292 passing for 2,344 yards and 21 touchdowns, along with 109 rushing attempts for 370 yards and 3 touchdowns on the ground. Daniels currently has 10,508 yards of total offense over his career, becoming the second Jayhawk in program history and 1-of-10 active players in FBS to accomplish such a feat and is 1-of-2 active players to do so all at one school (Cade Klubnik, Clemson).

The Pop Warner Little Scholars National College Football Award will be announced Dec. 10 during the 68th Pop Warner Super Bowl at Camping World Stadium, held Dec. 7-14. Last year’s winner was Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe, recognized for his performance as one of college football’s most dynamic offensive players, his academic achievements and his meaningful community engagement.

Previous recipients of the Pop Warner Award include Prince Amukamara (Nebraska), Chase Minnifield (Virginia), Sean Renfree (Duke), Gary Bush (Purdue), Jordan Richards (Stanford), Brandon Chubb (Wake Forest), Evan Engram (Mississippi), Braxton Berrios (Miami), CJ Conrad (Kentucky), Michael Pittman Jr. (USC), Ian Book (Notre Dame), Elijah Hicks (California), Kenneth Horsey (Kentucky) and Tony Bradford Jr. (Texas Tech).

LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;Kansas redshirt senior quarterback Jalon Daniels is one of five finalists for the 15th&nbsp;Annual Pop Warner College Football Award, the organization announced on Tuesday. Established in 2010, the award honors a player who has made a positive impact on the field, in the classroom, and in the community, and who serves as a role model to Pop Warner’s young student-athletes.Daniels, a native of Lawndale, Calif., is one of five finalists for the award and is joined by Tanner Wall (BYU), Josh Kattus (Kentucky), Aaron Graves (Iowa) and Adam Randall (Clemson).Daniels is Kansas' first four-time team captain and was Kansas's first Big 12 Football Scholar Athlete of the Year in 2024. Daniels was recently named a finalist for the William V. Campbell Trophy, which is awarded to college football's premier scholar-athlete award that annually recognizes an individual as the absolute best in the nation for his combined academic success, football performance, and exemplary leadership. Daniels is also a semifinalist for the Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year Award.Daniels has had a historic 2025 campaign, completing 188-of-292 passing for 2,344 yards and 21 touchdowns, along with 109 rushing attempts for 370 yards and 3 touchdowns on the ground. Daniels currently has 10,508 yards of total offense over his career, becoming the second Jayhawk in program history and 1-of-10 active players in FBS to accomplish such a feat and is 1-of-2 active players to do so all at one school (Cade Klubnik, Clemson).The Pop Warner Little Scholars National College Football Award will be announced Dec. 10 during the 68th Pop Warner Super Bowl at Camping World Stadium, held Dec. 7-14. Last year’s winner was Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe, recognized for his performance as one of college football’s most dynamic offensive players, his academic achievements and his meaningful community engagement.Previous recipients of the Pop Warner Award include Prince Amukamara (Nebraska), Chase Minnifield (Virginia), Sean Renfree (Duke), Gary Bush (Purdue), Jordan Richards (Stanford), Brandon Chubb (Wake Forest), Evan Engram (Mississippi), Braxton Berrios (Miami), CJ Conrad (Kentucky), Michael Pittman Jr. (USC), Ian Book (Notre Dame), Elijah Hicks (California), Kenneth Horsey (Kentucky) and Tony Bradford Jr. (Texas Tech).

🏈 Jalon Daniels Named a Finalist for the Pop Warner College Football Award

The views and opinions expressed in this editorial article are those of the author and do not reflect the official policy or position of Salina Post or Eagle Media.&nbsp;The&nbsp;editorial is intended to stimulate critical thinking and debate on issues of public interest and should be read with an open mind. Readers are encouraged to consider multiple sources of information and to form their own informed opinions.

Leaders can unite or divide, whether it be by design or by misstep.

Thanksgiving’s evolution shows how both can happen.

On October 3, 1863, amid profound division and upheaval of the Civil War, President Lincoln issued a formal proclamation that established a National Day of Thanksgiving. He invited his “fellow citizens in every part of the United States…to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November as a Day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the heavens.”

Perfectly timed after the Gettysburg victory, the proclamation capitalized on the Union’s improved outlook and Lincoln’s emerging stature as a unifier.

Lincoln hoped a shared day of thanks would help “heal the wounds of the nation” and establish a tradition that would bond Americans for generations.

Editor of the Ladies’ Magazine, Godey’s Lady’s Book, and author of the children’s poem “Mary Had a Little Lamb,” Hale had lobbied state and federal officials for nearly 40 years to make Thanksgiving a national holiday.

She wrote to Lincoln in the summer of 1863 asserting that only the president had the power to make the holiday, “permanently, an American custom and institution.”

Presidents thereafter followed Lincoln’s example.

However, in 1939, during the Great Depression, Franklin Roosevelt issued his own proclamation. He called for Thanksgiving to be moved back to the third Thursday of November.

At the time, retailers waited until after Thanksgiving to display Christmas decorations and hold sales. By adding an additional seven days to the shopping season, Roosevelt hoped to boost consumer spending. A Gallup opinion poll showed 62 percent of Americans disapproved. Roughly 80 percent of Republicans disapproved, while a majority of Democrats supported it.

Twenty-two mostly Democrat-leaning states observed Thanksgiving on the new date. Twenty-two mostly Republican-leaning states resisted. Three celebrated Thanksgiving on both dates.

A day meant to unite the country turned into a symbol of political difference. A reminder that partisan polarization is nothing new in U.S. politics. Kansas Republican Governor Payne Ratner announced that in the sunflower state “we do not destroy tradition merely to gain newspaper headlines.”

Alf Landon, FDR’s rival in the 1936 election, criticized Roosevelt’s “impulsiveness” and strongly objected to “springing it [the change] upon an unprepared country with the omnipotence of a Hitler.”

People started calling Thanksgiving “Franksgiving”.

Amid unprecedented crises, Lincoln and Roosevelt used Thanksgiving for different purposes. Lincoln envisioned it as a path toward national reconciliation. Roosevelt saw it as a lever for economic activity.

One president embraced tradition. The other disrupted it.

Eventually, Congress intervened and established Thanksgiving as a federal holiday, restoring its observance to the fourth Thursday in November.

The partisan fight faded. Black Friday emerged as a defining feature of American consumer culture, a phenomenon widely embraced by Democrats and Republicans.

Retailers now start promotions in late October and continue through Cyber Monday.

Thanksgiving ultimately became two traditions. First a day for gratitude, then a day for deals.

You can send us your opinions/letters to the editor, along with your name, city and or county location to&nbsp;newstips@salinapost.com

The views and opinions expressed in this editorial article are those of the author and do not reflect the official policy or position of Salina Post or Eagle Media.&nbsp;The&nbsp;editorial is intended to stimulate critical thinking and debate on issues of public interest and should be read with an open mind. Readers are encouraged to consider multiple sources of information and to form their own informed opinions.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1756906385173.png" alt="Mark R. Joslyn" />
 <figcaption>Mark R. Joslyn</figcaption>
 </figure>By:&nbsp;MARK R. JOSLYNUniversity of KansasLeaders can unite or divide, whether it be by design or by misstep.Thanksgiving’s evolution shows how both can happen.On October 3, 1863, amid profound division and upheaval of the Civil War, President Lincoln issued a formal proclamation that established a National Day of Thanksgiving. He invited his “fellow citizens in every part of the United States…to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November as a Day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the heavens.”Perfectly timed after the Gettysburg victory, the proclamation capitalized on the Union’s improved outlook and Lincoln’s emerging stature as a unifier.Lincoln hoped a shared day of thanks would help “heal the wounds of the nation” and establish a tradition that would bond Americans for generations.Sarah Josepha Hale hoped so too.Editor of the Ladies’ Magazine, Godey’s Lady’s Book, and author of the children’s poem “Mary Had a Little Lamb,” Hale had lobbied state and federal officials for nearly 40 years to make Thanksgiving a national holiday.She wrote to Lincoln in the summer of 1863 asserting that only the president had the power to make the holiday, “permanently, an American custom and institution.”Presidents thereafter followed Lincoln’s example.However, in 1939, during the Great Depression, Franklin Roosevelt issued his own proclamation. He called for Thanksgiving to be moved back to the third Thursday of November.At the time, retailers waited until after Thanksgiving to display Christmas decorations and hold sales. By adding an additional seven days to the shopping season, Roosevelt hoped to boost consumer spending. A Gallup opinion poll showed 62 percent of Americans disapproved. Roughly 80 percent of Republicans disapproved, while a majority of Democrats supported it.Twenty-two mostly Democrat-leaning states observed Thanksgiving on the new date. Twenty-two mostly Republican-leaning states resisted. Three celebrated Thanksgiving on both dates.A day meant to unite the country turned into a symbol of political difference. A reminder that partisan polarization is nothing new in U.S. politics. Kansas Republican Governor Payne Ratner announced that in the sunflower state “we do not destroy tradition merely to gain newspaper headlines.”Alf Landon, FDR’s rival in the 1936 election, criticized Roosevelt’s “impulsiveness” and strongly objected to “springing it [the change] upon an unprepared country with the omnipotence of a Hitler.”People started calling Thanksgiving “Franksgiving”.Amid unprecedented crises, Lincoln and Roosevelt used Thanksgiving for different purposes. Lincoln envisioned it as a path toward national reconciliation. Roosevelt saw it as a lever for economic activity.One president embraced tradition. The other disrupted it.Eventually, Congress intervened and established Thanksgiving as a federal holiday, restoring its observance to the fourth Thursday in November.But here’s the irony.Roosevelt’s vision stuck.The partisan fight faded. Black Friday emerged as a defining feature of American consumer culture, a phenomenon widely embraced by Democrats and Republicans.Retailers now start promotions in late October and continue through Cyber Monday.Thanksgiving ultimately became two traditions. First a day for gratitude, then a day for deals.Lincoln meets Roosevelt.Oh, yes, and then there’s football.You can send us your opinions/letters to the editor, along with your name, city and or county location to&nbsp;newstips@salinapost.com

INSIGHT KANSAS: The two traditions of Thanksgiving

LEAVENWORTH COUNTY&nbsp;– One suspect arrested and an exchange of gunfire with a Kansas deputy on Friday in Basehor, Kansas, has a long criminal history.

Just before 9p.m., deputies from the Leavenworth County Sheriff’s Office responded to the 16900 block of Dempsey Road where a resident reported being threatened, according to a media release from the KBI.&nbsp; The reporting party provided a description of the suspect’s vehicle, which was a white Honda SUV.

Preliminary information indicates deputies located the Honda nearby, and attempted to stop the SUV, when the driver fled. While the Honda traveled eastbound in the 17000 block of Dempsey Road, gunshots were fired from the SUV toward the pursuing patrol vehicle. Near N. 147th&nbsp;and Parallel Road, in Basehor, gunshots were again fired from the Honda, and the responding deputy crashed his patrol vehicle.

The pursuit continued to the area of N. 156th&nbsp;and Parallel Road, where the Honda collided with a passenger car. As a deputy pulled behind the Honda, a male subject, later identified as Andrew M. Amundsen, 33, of Leavenworth, exited the passenger side, and fired several rounds. The deputy returned fire. The driver of the vehicle, Mariah Huggins, 29, of Kansas City, Kansas, was taken into custody at the crash site.

Amundsen fled on foot. In an attempt to hide, he broke a basement window of an area home, entered the residence, but then exited and continued to flee. Sheriff's deputies located him hiding in a truck bed in the area of N. 157th&nbsp;and Cedar Street and took him into custody. Amundsen was uninjured, and later booked into the Leavenworth County Jail on an outstanding arrest warrant. He has previous felony convictions for burglary, theft, evading a road block, criminal possession of a weapon and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

The deputy involved in the wreck was transported to the hospital where he was treated for his injuries and then released. No other deputies or civilians were hurt during this incident. As a precaution, Huggins was examined by hospital personnel, and then booked into the Leavenworth County Jail on a pre-existing warrant.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Amundsen has been charged with attempted capital murder, aggravated residential burglary, interference with a law enforcement officer, two counts of aggravated battery, fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement, two counts of criminal threat,&nbsp; criminal damage to property and aggravated endangering of a child, according to the Leavenworth County Attorney's office.

Huggins has been charged with two counts of aggravated battery and fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement, as well as misdemeanor charges of reckless driving and driving while suspended.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763841798756.png" alt="Huggins photo Leavenworth County" />
 <figcaption>Huggins photo Leavenworth County</figcaption>
 </figure>LEAVENWORTH COUNTY&nbsp;– One suspect arrested and an exchange of gunfire with a Kansas deputy on Friday in Basehor, Kansas, has a long criminal history.Just before 9p.m., deputies from the Leavenworth County Sheriff’s Office responded to the 16900 block of Dempsey Road where a resident reported being threatened, according to a media release from the KBI.&nbsp; The reporting party provided a description of the suspect’s vehicle, which was a white Honda SUV.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763841640176.png" alt="Amundsen photo Leavenworth County" />
 <figcaption>Amundsen photo Leavenworth County</figcaption>
 </figure>Preliminary information indicates deputies located the Honda nearby, and attempted to stop the SUV, when the driver fled. While the Honda traveled eastbound in the 17000 block of Dempsey Road, gunshots were fired from the SUV toward the pursuing patrol vehicle. Near N. 147th&nbsp;and Parallel Road, in Basehor, gunshots were again fired from the Honda, and the responding deputy crashed his patrol vehicle.The pursuit continued to the area of N. 156th&nbsp;and Parallel Road, where the Honda collided with a passenger car. As a deputy pulled behind the Honda, a male subject, later identified as Andrew M. Amundsen, 33, of Leavenworth, exited the passenger side, and fired several rounds. The deputy returned fire. The driver of the vehicle, Mariah Huggins, 29, of Kansas City, Kansas, was taken into custody at the crash site.Amundsen fled on foot. In an attempt to hide, he broke a basement window of an area home, entered the residence, but then exited and continued to flee. Sheriff's deputies located him hiding in a truck bed in the area of N. 157th&nbsp;and Cedar Street and took him into custody. Amundsen was uninjured, and later booked into the Leavenworth County Jail on an outstanding arrest warrant. He has previous felony convictions for burglary, theft, evading a road block, criminal possession of a weapon and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.The deputy involved in the wreck was transported to the hospital where he was treated for his injuries and then released. No other deputies or civilians were hurt during this incident. As a precaution, Huggins was examined by hospital personnel, and then booked into the Leavenworth County Jail on a pre-existing warrant.&nbsp;&nbsp;Amundsen has been charged with attempted capital murder, aggravated residential burglary, interference with a law enforcement officer, two counts of aggravated battery, fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement, two counts of criminal threat,&nbsp; criminal damage to property and aggravated endangering of a child, according to the Leavenworth County Attorney's office.Huggins has been charged with two counts of aggravated battery and fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement, as well as misdemeanor charges of reckless driving and driving while suspended.

Suspect in gunfight with Kan. deputy has a history of crime

Just after 3 p.m., November 17, police were dispatched to an a dispute at the the Salvation Army, 2545 10th&nbsp;Street in Great Bend, according to a media release.

Upon their arrival, they contacted Leslie DeWitt, 49, and learned that she had exhibited disruptive behavior in the business and had been asked several times by the store personnel to leave the property.

Officers informed DeWitt that she was no longer welcome on the business property and she entered her vehicle and drove away. A short time later, an officer observed DeWitt's vehicle back in the Salvation Army parking lot and observed DeWitt exiting the store. DeWitt entered her vehicle as the officer approached to detain her.&nbsp;

As the officer was standing between the open car door and the woman, DeWitt placed her vehicle in reverse and proceeded to back up, striking the officer with the door and briefly pulling him alongside the moving vehicle. 

DeWitt then drove eastbound on 10th Street at a high rate of speed. She was relocated and taken into custody a short time later.

After her arrest,&nbsp; K9 Niko was deployed and alerted to her vehicle. A search of DeWitt's vehicle was conducted and THC, opiates, and drug paraphernalia were located. During subsequent processing for DUI,&nbsp; DeWitt kicked, spit on, and attempted to bite members of the Great Bend Police Department.

DeWitt was booked into the Barton County Jail on requested charges of Aggravated Battery on a law enforcement officer, Felony Interference, Felony DUI, Possession of THC, Possession of Opiates, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Assault on Law enforcement officer.

The GBPD was assisted on this call by the Barton County Sheriff's Office, the Kansas Highway Patrol, and the Great Bend Fire Department.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764035676465.png" alt="Dewitt-photo Barton County" />
 <figcaption>Dewitt-photo Barton County</figcaption>
 </figure>Just after 3 p.m., November 17, police were dispatched to an a dispute at the the Salvation Army, 2545 10th&nbsp;Street in Great Bend, according to a media release.Upon their arrival, they contacted Leslie DeWitt, 49, and learned that she had exhibited disruptive behavior in the business and had been asked several times by the store personnel to leave the property.Officers informed DeWitt that she was no longer welcome on the business property and she entered her vehicle and drove away. A short time later, an officer observed DeWitt's vehicle back in the Salvation Army parking lot and observed DeWitt exiting the store. DeWitt entered her vehicle as the officer approached to detain her.&nbsp;As the officer was standing between the open car door and the woman, DeWitt placed her vehicle in reverse and proceeded to back up, striking the officer with the door and briefly pulling him alongside the moving vehicle. DeWitt then drove eastbound on 10th Street at a high rate of speed. She was relocated and taken into custody a short time later.After her arrest,&nbsp; K9 Niko was deployed and alerted to her vehicle. A search of DeWitt's vehicle was conducted and THC, opiates, and drug paraphernalia were located. During subsequent processing for DUI,&nbsp; DeWitt kicked, spit on, and attempted to bite members of the Great Bend Police Department.DeWitt was booked into the Barton County Jail on requested charges of Aggravated Battery on a law enforcement officer, Felony Interference, Felony DUI, Possession of THC, Possession of Opiates, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Assault on Law enforcement officer.The GBPD was assisted on this call by the Barton County Sheriff's Office, the Kansas Highway Patrol, and the Great Bend Fire Department.&nbsp;

Kansas woman accused of striking officer with her car

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating a fatal weekend hit-and-run have made an arrest.

Just after 6:30 p.m. on Nov. 22, officers responded to a call about a pedestrian hit near Central and Hillside in Wichita, according to a media release from Wichita Police. First responders found a a man who had been struck by multiple vehicles. Wichita Fire Department personnel extricated the victim and took him to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased.

Initial investigation indicated the pedestrian was hit by three different vehicles. Two drivers stayed at the scene and cooperated with investigators. The third vehicle fled but was later located by officers. The driver, identified in booking records as 27-year-old Chance M. Flores-Leach was initially outstanding but was arrested and booked into the Sedgwick County Jail on requested charges of Felony Hit and Run Resulting in a Death.&nbsp;

Anyone with more information is urged to contact Accident Follow-Up detectives at 316-350-3686. Tips can also be anonymously submitted to Crime Stoppers at 316-267-2111.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763948742947.png" alt="Photo Courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating a fatal weekend hit-and-run have made an arrest.Just after 6:30 p.m. on Nov. 22, officers responded to a call about a pedestrian hit near Central and Hillside in Wichita, according to a media release from Wichita Police. First responders found a a man who had been struck by multiple vehicles. Wichita Fire Department personnel extricated the victim and took him to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763983059541.png" alt="FLORES-LEACH -photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>FLORES-LEACH -photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>Initial investigation indicated the pedestrian was hit by three different vehicles. Two drivers stayed at the scene and cooperated with investigators. The third vehicle fled but was later located by officers. The driver, identified in booking records as 27-year-old Chance M. Flores-Leach was initially outstanding but was arrested and booked into the Sedgwick County Jail on requested charges of Felony Hit and Run Resulting in a Death.&nbsp;Anyone with more information is urged to contact Accident Follow-Up detectives at 316-350-3686. Tips can also be anonymously submitted to Crime Stoppers at 316-267-2111.

Fatal crash: Pedestrian struck by 3 vehicles, 1 Kan. driver arrested

SEDGWICK COUNTY — A report of a suspicious vehicle led to the arrest of two people in Bentley earlier this month, according to the Bentley Police Department.

Deputy Chief Scott Harris responded to a call around 9:30 p.m. on Nov. 11 after residents reported a suspicious character driving through the neighborhood near Devonshire and Midland. Mt. Hope Officer Brandon Endicott also assisted with checking the area.

Officers located the vehicle parked partially on public right of way and private property at 150 S. Dacey. The car displayed an expired Oklahoma registration and was occupied by a single woman. Officers observed burglary tools inside and learned from a citizen that a male passenger had left the vehicle and was seen walking south on Phelps.

Chief Bryan and Police Service Dog Edy arrived to search the vehicle. A free air sniff resulted in a positive alert, and a subsequent search led to the discovery of suspected methamphetamine, marijuana and multiple items of drug paraphernalia.

While responding to assist, Colwich Officer Tyson Ridenour was advised of a man walking in the roadway near K-96 and 151st Street West. He stopped the man, determined he was the second occupant of the vehicle and placed him under arrest on two outstanding warrants.

Police identified the woman as Susan Lepich, 39. She was was arrested on requested charges of&nbsp; possession of controlled substances, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, no proof of insurance and operating without valid registration. Investigators noted she has previous drug-related convictions, including a 2020 conviction in Colorado Springs for dangerous drugs and criminal trespass, and a September arrest in Greensburg for possession of methamphetamine. Her initial appearance is scheduled for December in Kiowa County District Court. She was booked into the Sedgwick County Jail on a 3,250 dollar bond.

The male suspect, identified as Chad E. Hendershot, 43, of Wichita, was transported and booked on two warrants issued through the Wichita Police Department.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763928049906.png" alt="Hendershot photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Hendershot photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY — A report of a suspicious vehicle led to the arrest of two people in Bentley earlier this month, according to the Bentley Police Department.Deputy Chief Scott Harris responded to a call around 9:30 p.m. on Nov. 11 after residents reported a suspicious character driving through the neighborhood near Devonshire and Midland. Mt. Hope Officer Brandon Endicott also assisted with checking the area.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763928017717.png" alt="Lepich photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Lepich photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>Officers located the vehicle parked partially on public right of way and private property at 150 S. Dacey. The car displayed an expired Oklahoma registration and was occupied by a single woman. Officers observed burglary tools inside and learned from a citizen that a male passenger had left the vehicle and was seen walking south on Phelps.Chief Bryan and Police Service Dog Edy arrived to search the vehicle. A free air sniff resulted in a positive alert, and a subsequent search led to the discovery of suspected methamphetamine, marijuana and multiple items of drug paraphernalia.While responding to assist, Colwich Officer Tyson Ridenour was advised of a man walking in the roadway near K-96 and 151st Street West. He stopped the man, determined he was the second occupant of the vehicle and placed him under arrest on two outstanding warrants.Police identified the woman as Susan Lepich, 39. She was was arrested on requested charges of&nbsp; possession of controlled substances, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, no proof of insurance and operating without valid registration. Investigators noted she has previous drug-related convictions, including a 2020 conviction in Colorado Springs for dangerous drugs and criminal trespass, and a September arrest in Greensburg for possession of methamphetamine. Her initial appearance is scheduled for December in Kiowa County District Court. She was booked into the Sedgwick County Jail on a 3,250 dollar bond.The male suspect, identified as Chad E. Hendershot, 43, of Wichita, was transported and booked on two warrants issued through the Wichita Police Department.

Kansas couple arrested after report of suspicious vehicle 

Join Editors Leslie VonHolten and Tom Averill as they discuss their new book,&nbsp;Kansas Matters: 21st-Century Writers on the Sunflower State.&nbsp;

This anthology expands our state's stories through 35 poems, essays, and short fiction that explore the beauty of the land and the fight for its preservation, the division of identity and the belonging of home, the context of our history and our hopes for the future.

It is a complex, emotional, and inspiring assertion of why Kansas matters. 

Joining Leslie and Tom, are contributors Rex Buchanan, Wes Jackson, Rolf Potts, and Josh Svaty.&nbsp;

This event will take place at Red Fern Booksellers (106 S. Santa&nbsp;Fe) on&nbsp;Sunday, December 7 at&nbsp;2:00 pm.

Thomas Averill is professor emeritus of English at Washburn University&nbsp;in Topeka, Kansas, where he taught creative writing and Kansas studies.He is an O. Henry Award short-story winner and author of ten books.His introduction to&nbsp;What Kansas Means to Me: Twentieth Century Writerson the Sunflower State&nbsp;(1991) was titled “Afflicted with Affection,” and he&nbsp;remains so. In 2010 he created the Thomas Fox Averill Kansas Studies Collection&nbsp;at Washburn’s Mabee Library.

Leslie VonHolten writes about land and culture in the prairie and Great&nbsp;Plains regions. She is a 2022 Tallgrass Artist Residency fellow and long-time&nbsp;commentator on High Plains Public Radio in Garden City, Kansas. Her recent&nbsp;essays have been published in&nbsp;The New Territory,&nbsp;Literary Landscapes,and&nbsp;The Dark Mountain Project. She lives in Lawrence, Kansas.

Rolf Potts&nbsp;is the author of five books, including the bestseller&nbsp;Vagabonding: An Uncommon Guide to the Art of Long-Term World Travel&nbsp;(Random House, 2003). His essays and reportage have appeared in the likes of&nbsp;National Geographic Traveler, Outside, The New Yorker, Sports Illustrated,&nbsp;National Public Radio, and the Travel Channel. He is based in north-central Kansas, where he keeps a small farmhouse on 30 acres with his wife, Kansas-born actress Kristen Bush.

Rex Buchanan&nbsp;grew up in Rice County, Kansas, on the edge of the Smoky Hills. He is director emeritus of the Kansas Geological Survey, based at the University of Kansas. He is the editor or co-author of five books, including&nbsp;Roadside Kansas, Kansas Geology,&nbsp;and&nbsp;Petroglyphs of the Kansas Smoky Hills,&nbsp;all published by the University Press of Kansas. He does occasional commentaries for Kansas Public Radio.

Joshua Svaty&nbsp;is a former legislator and State Secretary of Agriculture from rural Ellsworth, Kansas, where he and his family have been farming since the 1860s. He is married to Kimberly and they raise their four children in Topeka, where Joshua works with his wife in her firm, Gencur Svaty Public Affairs. Svaty speaks and advises nationally and internationally on matters related to agriculture, energy, and natural resources.

Wes Jackson&nbsp;was born and raised on a farm near Topeka. He co-founded The Land Institute in 1976.&nbsp;Jackson is a 1992 MacArthur Fellow, renowned author, plant geneticist, and emeritus professor of Biology. He is widely recognized as one of the foremost figures in the international sustainable agriculture movement. He authored and co-authored numerous books, including the seminal&nbsp;New Roots for Agriculture, conceptualizing the idea of The Land Institute’s work on natural systems agriculture modeled on and inspired by the Kansas prairie. Jackson is also the author of the recent books&nbsp;Hogs Are Up: Stories of the Land, with Digressions, and&nbsp;An Inconvenient Apocalypse.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763758600822.jpeg" alt="Editors Leslie VonHolten and Tom Averill discuss new book Kansas Matters- 21st-Century Writers on the Sunflower State at Red Fern Booksellers (106 S Santa Fe) on Sunday, December 7 at 2 pm. Courtesy of Red Fern Booksellers" />
 <figcaption>Editors Leslie VonHolten and Tom Averill discuss new book Kansas Matters- 21st-Century Writers on the Sunflower State at Red Fern Booksellers (106 S Santa Fe) on Sunday, December 7 at 2 pm. Courtesy of Red Fern Booksellers</figcaption>
 </figure>Red Fern BooksellersJoin Editors Leslie VonHolten and Tom Averill as they discuss their new book,&nbsp;Kansas Matters: 21st-Century Writers on the Sunflower State.&nbsp;This anthology expands our state's stories through 35 poems, essays, and short fiction that explore the beauty of the land and the fight for its preservation, the division of identity and the belonging of home, the context of our history and our hopes for the future. It is a complex, emotional, and inspiring assertion of why Kansas matters. Joining Leslie and Tom, are contributors Rex Buchanan, Wes Jackson, Rolf Potts, and Josh Svaty.&nbsp;This event will take place at Red Fern Booksellers (106 S. Santa&nbsp;Fe) on&nbsp;Sunday, December 7 at&nbsp;2:00 pm.<h2>Thomas Fox Averill&nbsp;</h2>Thomas Averill is professor emeritus of English at Washburn University&nbsp;in Topeka, Kansas, where he taught creative writing and Kansas studies.He is an O. Henry Award short-story winner and author of ten books.His introduction to&nbsp;What Kansas Means to Me: Twentieth Century Writerson the Sunflower State&nbsp;(1991) was titled “Afflicted with Affection,” and he&nbsp;remains so. In 2010 he created the Thomas Fox Averill Kansas Studies Collection&nbsp;at Washburn’s Mabee Library.<h2>Leslie VonHolten&nbsp;</h2>Leslie VonHolten writes about land and culture in the prairie and Great&nbsp;Plains regions. She is a 2022 Tallgrass Artist Residency fellow and long-time&nbsp;commentator on High Plains Public Radio in Garden City, Kansas. Her recent&nbsp;essays have been published in&nbsp;The New Territory,&nbsp;Literary Landscapes,and&nbsp;The Dark Mountain Project. She lives in Lawrence, Kansas.<h2>Rolf Potts&nbsp;</h2>Rolf Potts&nbsp;is the author of five books, including the bestseller&nbsp;Vagabonding: An Uncommon Guide to the Art of Long-Term World Travel&nbsp;(Random House, 2003). His essays and reportage have appeared in the likes of&nbsp;National Geographic Traveler, Outside, The New Yorker, Sports Illustrated,&nbsp;National Public Radio, and the Travel Channel. He is based in north-central Kansas, where he keeps a small farmhouse on 30 acres with his wife, Kansas-born actress Kristen Bush.<h2>Rex Buchanan&nbsp;</h2>Rex Buchanan&nbsp;grew up in Rice County, Kansas, on the edge of the Smoky Hills. He is director emeritus of the Kansas Geological Survey, based at the University of Kansas. He is the editor or co-author of five books, including&nbsp;Roadside Kansas, Kansas Geology,&nbsp;and&nbsp;Petroglyphs of the Kansas Smoky Hills,&nbsp;all published by the University Press of Kansas. He does occasional commentaries for Kansas Public Radio.<h2>Joshua Svaty&nbsp;</h2>Joshua Svaty&nbsp;is a former legislator and State Secretary of Agriculture from rural Ellsworth, Kansas, where he and his family have been farming since the 1860s. He is married to Kimberly and they raise their four children in Topeka, where Joshua works with his wife in her firm, Gencur Svaty Public Affairs. Svaty speaks and advises nationally and internationally on matters related to agriculture, energy, and natural resources.<h2>Wes Jackson&nbsp;</h2>Wes Jackson&nbsp;was born and raised on a farm near Topeka. He co-founded The Land Institute in 1976.&nbsp;Jackson is a 1992 MacArthur Fellow, renowned author, plant geneticist, and emeritus professor of Biology. He is widely recognized as one of the foremost figures in the international sustainable agriculture movement. He authored and co-authored numerous books, including the seminal&nbsp;New Roots for Agriculture, conceptualizing the idea of The Land Institute’s work on natural systems agriculture modeled on and inspired by the Kansas prairie. Jackson is also the author of the recent books&nbsp;Hogs Are Up: Stories of the Land, with Digressions, and&nbsp;An Inconvenient Apocalypse.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Two editors to discuss new book centralized on the state of Kansas

LEAVENWORTH COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation is investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred Friday night in Basehor, Kansas.

Amundsen fled on foot. In an attempt to hide, he broke a basement window of an area home, entered the residence, but then exited and continued to flee. Sheriff's deputies located him hiding in a truck bed in the area of N. 157th&nbsp;and Cedar Street and took him into custody. Amundsen was uninjured, and later booked into the Leavenworth County Jail on an outstanding arrest warrant.

The deputy involved in the wreck was transported to the hospital where he was treated for his injuries and then released. No other deputies or civilians were hurt during this incident. As a precaution, Huggins was examined by hospital personnel, and then booked into the Leavenworth County Jail on a pre-existing warrant.

Additional charges, related to this incident, are expected for Amundsen and Huggins.

This independent investigation aims to discover all events leading up to the officer-involved shooting. In police use of force cases, the KBI releases details to the public as soon as possible. This information is preliminary in nature, and is based on evidence collected and early statements of the parties involved, witnesses, medical personnel and others. It does not represent final or thorough findings which take several weeks to complete.

When this investigation concludes case findings will be presented to the Leavenworth County Attorney for determination of charges. The investigation is ongoing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763841640176.png" alt="Amundsen -photo Leavenworth County" />
 <figcaption>Amundsen -photo Leavenworth County</figcaption>
 </figure>LEAVENWORTH COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation is investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred Friday night in Basehor, Kansas.Just before 9p.m., deputies from the Leavenworth County Sheriff’s Office responded to the 16900 block of Dempsey Road where a resident reported being threatened, according to a media release from the KBI.&nbsp; The reporting party provided a description of the suspect’s vehicle, which was a white Honda SUV.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763841798756.png" alt="Huggins -photo Leavenworth County" />
 <figcaption>Huggins -photo Leavenworth County</figcaption>
 </figure>Preliminary information indicates deputies located the Honda nearby, and attempted to stop the SUV, when the driver fled. While the Honda traveled eastbound in the 17000 block of Dempsey Road, gunshots were fired from the SUV toward the pursuing patrol vehicle. Near N. 147th&nbsp;and Parallel Road, in Basehor, gunshots were again fired from the Honda, and the responding deputy crashed his patrol vehicle.The pursuit continued to the area of N. 156th&nbsp;and Parallel Road, where the Honda collided with a passenger car. As a deputy pulled behind the Honda, a male subject, later identified as Andrew M. Amundsen, 33, of Leavenworth, exited the passenger side, and fired several rounds. The deputy returned fire. The driver of the vehicle, Mariah Huggins, 29, of Kansas City, Kansas, was taken into custody at the crash site.Amundsen fled on foot. In an attempt to hide, he broke a basement window of an area home, entered the residence, but then exited and continued to flee. Sheriff's deputies located him hiding in a truck bed in the area of N. 157th&nbsp;and Cedar Street and took him into custody. Amundsen was uninjured, and later booked into the Leavenworth County Jail on an outstanding arrest warrant.The deputy involved in the wreck was transported to the hospital where he was treated for his injuries and then released. No other deputies or civilians were hurt during this incident. As a precaution, Huggins was examined by hospital personnel, and then booked into the Leavenworth County Jail on a pre-existing warrant.Additional charges, related to this incident, are expected for Amundsen and Huggins.This independent investigation aims to discover all events leading up to the officer-involved shooting. In police use of force cases, the KBI releases details to the public as soon as possible. This information is preliminary in nature, and is based on evidence collected and early statements of the parties involved, witnesses, medical personnel and others. It does not represent final or thorough findings which take several weeks to complete.When this investigation concludes case findings will be presented to the Leavenworth County Attorney for determination of charges. The investigation is ongoing.

Couple jailed after exchange of gunfire with Kan. deputy

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION NEW RIVER, N.C. (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/melania-trump">Melania Trump</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/usha-vance-attorney-jd-vance-wife-vp-63406da4f6739546391ed7797fc1fef2">Usha Vance</a>&nbsp;took their first trip together on Wednesday, visiting Marine Corps members and their relatives in North Carolina to mark the approach of Thanksgiving and salute military families, which the first lady called "the quiet strength of our nation.”

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION NEW RIVER, N.C. (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/melania-trump">Melania Trump</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/usha-vance-attorney-jd-vance-wife-vp-63406da4f6739546391ed7797fc1fef2">Usha Vance</a>&nbsp;took their first trip together on Wednesday, visiting Marine Corps members and their relatives in North Carolina to mark the approach of Thanksgiving and salute military families, which the first lady called "the quiet strength of our nation.”<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">As we give thanks this season, let us remember what unites us - our shared love of country, our faith in one another, and our pride in those who serve. <a href="https://t.co/amLURKB79p">pic.twitter.com/amLURKB79p</a>&mdash; First Lady Melania Trump (@FLOTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/FLOTUS/status/1991916056915652998?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Melania Trump and Usha Vance first trip together -- North Carolina -- Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune <a href="https://t.co/7BmNcV71qm">pic.twitter.com/7BmNcV71qm</a>&mdash; Howard Mortman (@HowardMortman) <a href="https://twitter.com/HowardMortman/status/1991218380225851545?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/FLOTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FLOTUS</a> at Camp Lejeune: &quot;Technology is changing the art of war. Predictably, AI will alter war more profoundly than any technology since nuclear weapons... of course, it is the Marine who will always play the most critical role in realizing mission success.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/yJZP22kYqA">pic.twitter.com/yJZP22kYqA</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1991248350146867276?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/FLOTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FLOTUS</a> at Camp Lejeune: &quot;Last week, the <a href="https://twitter.com/USMC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USMC</a> celebrated 250 years of service — two-and-a-half centuries of courage, tradition, and excellence. To you and your families who give so much for our country, thank you.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/1DVGPYTW1h">pic.twitter.com/1DVGPYTW1h</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1991248139957719044?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SLOTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SLOTUS</a> delivers remarks to Marines at Camp Lejeune: &quot;It&#39;s such an honor to be here with you at Camp Lejeune... right around the corner from Cherry Point, where my husband <a href="https://twitter.com/VP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@VP</a> was stationed... Military families are truly a model for our country and for my own family.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/zSiLJKrV0m">pic.twitter.com/zSiLJKrV0m</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1991247395842040297?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/FLOTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FLOTUS</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/SLOTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SLOTUS</a> join North Carolina military schoolchildren for crafts as Thanksgiving approaches <a href="https://t.co/kil1IAFGaM">pic.twitter.com/kil1IAFGaM</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1991235585579552863?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The wives of President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;and Vice President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/jd-vance">JD Vance</a>, a former Marine, visited schools at Camp Lejeune, the largest Marine Corps base on the East Coast, before delivering remarks to some 1,600 uniformed, cheering Marines and their families at Marine Corps Air Station New River.“Please know that our nation is thinking of you, praying for you and deeply grateful for your service,” Trump said of all military service members stationed far from home during the holidays, speaking from a stage flanked by parked tanks and helicopters.Trump stressed the growing importance of artificial intelligence to the military, noting that “technology is changing the art of war.”“Predictably, AI will alter war more profoundly than any technology since nuclear weapons,” she said, also noting that "we are moving from human operators to human overseers fast.”Trump and Vance both saluted the Marines for the branch's recent 250th anniversary, and the second lady said that “military families are truly a model for our country and for my own family."Brigadier General Ralph J. Rizzo Jr, said of the joint visit: “Those moments matter because they show our families their service and sacrifices are seen and appreciated."Trump and Vance's speeches followed them discussing AI with high schoolers and helping younger children make turkeys out of cardstock — surrounded by Elmer’s glue and glue sticks.They watched an advanced placement research class from the Lejeune High “Devilpups,” recalling the Marine Corps’ “Devil Dog” nickname, and had discussions about technological development.Trump and Vance sat with four tables of students with laptops. They listened to a student presentation on electronic media affecting sleep and adolescent wellbeing, as well as a study on social media addiction and its impact on young people’s esteem and body image.The students demonstrated how they used AI to generate videos as part of their presentation. The first lady asked one group how they used AI in school, and nodded along as they chatted. The students also described rules that kept them from using AI to improperly complete assignments.Trump and Vance later visited a gymnasium, where the school was assembling 2,000 care packages for service members stationed abroad — filled with goodies including jerky sticks. The first lady told the crowd there that she and the president always think of U.S. service members but “especially during the holidays.”Trump and Vance also toured two kindergarten classes and a first grade class at DeLalio Elementary School, entering classrooms where each table had been laid with folders from Be Best, Trump’s child-focused initiative. The folders featured a puzzle, pen, and sticker for each student.Trump told one of the girls she was “beautiful.” The youngster had a patriotic ribbon pinned to her light blue top, meaning one of her parents is on active deployment.The first lady asked another a question, before declaring, “’Isn’t it fun?” She engaged in a long conversation with another girl before offering, “Very nice. I love your story.”Later, sitting at tables with the youngsters, Trump commanded, “Show me how you play.” Several of the kindergartners and first graders wore ribbons signifying a deployed parent — as did many in the larger group of students later making turkeys with the first and second ladies.Both have appeared together at other public events, though not on the road. Most notably, they were together at the inauguration of their husbands at the U.S. Capitol in January.Other joint appearances came at a White House event celebrating military mothers and a luncheon for Senate spouses, both in May; the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-kennedy-center-performing-arts-487a890419ebf4de42660c5d947dc69c">opening night of “Les Misérables”</a>&nbsp;at the Kennedy Center in June; and the president's signing last week of an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/melania-trump-white-house-foster-care-5301987e676786c793b2b9fba0eb4c2f">executive order to help foster children</a>, which also came as part of Be Best.Melania Trump has centered her work around children, launching&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/parenting-united-states-government-2aefddc6f11044d4ac340809f9e75bb3">Be Best</a>&nbsp;during her husband's first term to focus on their welfare, online safety and opioid abuse.Last month, she announced that eight children displaced by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine">the Russia-Ukraine war</a>&nbsp;had been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/melania-trump-russia-ukraine-children-fe324a08a9a957f05995dac0d95a66c3">reunited with their families</a>&nbsp;following talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.Earlier this year, the first lady helped lobby Congress to pass legislation&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-melania-intimate-imagery-bill-sign-c7416b4935f8ccac9fd2909e494da9f1">imposing federal penalties for online sexual exploitation</a>, often targeting young girls. Her husband signed the bill into law in May.Usha Vance, a former lawyer, launched a “Summer Reading Challenge” to encourage students in kindergarten through eighth grade to read 12 books during the school break. Certificates and prizes were promised to those who completed the challenge.The second lady often accompanies the vice president on his trips and sometimes brings along their three young children.