NEW YORK (AP) — The New York Times is striking back against the threat that artificial intelligence poses to the news industry, filing a federal lawsuit Wednesday against OpenAI and Microsoft seeking to end the practice of using its stories to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/artificial-intelligence">train chatbots</a>.

The Times says that the companies are threatening its livelihood by effectively stealing billions of dollars worth of work by its journalists, in some cases spitting out Times' material verbatim to people who seek answers from generative artificial intelligence like OpenAI's ChatGPT. The newspaper's lawsuit was filed in federal court in Manhattan.

OpenAI and Microsoft did not respond to requests for comment.

The media is one of many industries that could be upended by the rapid development of AI. Media organizations have already been pummeled by a migration of readers to online platforms and while many publications — most notably the Times — have successfully carved out a digital space, AI could become a significant threat.

“These bots compete with the content they are trained on,” said Ian B. Crosby, partner and lead counsel at Susman Godfrey, which is representing The Times.

Artificial intelligence companies scrape information available online, including articles published by news organizations, to train generative AI chatbots. The large language models are also trained on a huge trove of other human-written materials, such as instructional manuals and digital books. That helps them to build a strong command of language and grammar and to answer questions correctly.

But the technology is still under development and gets many things wrong. In its lawsuit, for example, the Times said OpenAI’s GPT-4 falsely attributed product recommendations to Wirecutter, the paper’s product reviews site, endangering its reputation.

OpenAI and other AI companies, including rival Anthropic, have attracted billions in investments very rapidly since public and business interest in the technology exploded, particularly this year.

Microsoft has a partnership with OpenAI that allows it to capitalize on the company’s AI technology. The Redmond, Washington, tech giant is also OpenAI’s biggest backer and has invested at least $13 billion into the company since the two began their partnership in 2019, according to the lawsuit. As part of the agreement, Microsoft’s supercomputers help power OpenAI’s AI research and the tech giant integrates the startup’s technology into its products.

The paper's complaint comes as the number of lawsuits filed against OpenAI for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sarah-silverman-suing-chatgpt-openai-ai-8927025139a8151e26053249d1aeec20">copyright infringement is growing</a>. The company has been sued by several writers — including comedian Sarah Silverman — who say their books were ingested to train OpenAI's AI models without their permission. In June, more than 4,000 writers signed a letter to the CEOs of OpenAI, Google, Microsoft, Meta and other AI developers accusing them of exploitative practices in building chatbots that “mimic and regurgitate” their language, style and ideas.

As AI technology develops, growing fears over its use have also fueled labor strikes and lawsuits in other industries,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/artificial-intelligence-hollywood-strikes-explained-writers-actors-e872bd63ab52c3ea9f7d6e825240a202">including Hollywood</a>. Different stakeholders are realizing the technology could disrupt their entire business model, but the question will be how to respond to it, said Sarah Kreps, director of Cornell University’s Tech Policy Institute.

Kreps said she agrees The New York Times is facing a threat from these chatbots, but she also argued solving the issue completely is going to be an uphill battle.

“There’s so many other language models out there that are doing the same thing,” she said.

The lawsuit filed Wednesday claims that generative AI tools developed by OpenAI and Microsoft are closely summarizing content from the Times, mimicking its style and even reciting it verbatim. The complaint cited examples of OpenAI’s GPT-4 spitting out large portions of news articles from the Times, including a Pulitzer-Prize winning investigation into New York City’s taxi industry that was published in 2019 and took 18 months to complete. It also cited outputs from Bing Chat — now called Copilot — that it said included verbatim excerpts from Times articles.

The Times did not list specific damages that it is seeking, but said the legal action “seeks to hold them responsible for the billions of dollars in statutory and actual damages that they owe for the unlawful copying and use of The Times’s uniquely valuable works.” It is also asking the court to order the tech companies to destroy AI models or data sets that use its work.

Web traffic is an important component of the paper's advertising revenue and helps drive subscriptions to its online site. The outputs from AI chatbots divert that traffic away from the paper and other copyright holders, the Times says, making it less likely that users will visit the original source for the information.

Less traffic to the Times' Wirecutter articles, for example, means less people clicking on affiliate links, which in turn means less revenue for the paper's product review site.

The New York Times said it’s never given permission to anyone to use its content for generative AI purposes. The lawsuit also follows what appears to be breakdowns in talks between the newspaper and the two companies that began in April, and could be a way to kickstart talks on ending a business dispute.

The News/Media Alliance, a trade group representing more than 2,200 news organizations, applauded Wednesday's action by the Times.

“Quality journalism and GenAI can complement each other if approached collaboratively,” said Danielle Coffey, alliance president and CEO. “But using journalism without permission or payment is unlawful, and certainly not fair use.”

In July, OpenAI and The Associated Press&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/openai-chatgpt-associated-press-ap-f86f84c5bcc2f3b98074b38521f5f75a">announced a deal</a>&nbsp;for the artificial intelligence company to license AP’s archive of news stories. This month, OpenAI also signed a similar partnership with Axel Springer, a media company in Berlin that owns Politico and Business Insider. Under the deal, users of OpenAI’s ChatGPT will receive summaries of “selected global news content” from Axel Springer’s media brands. The companies said the answers to queries will include attribution and links to the original articles.

The Times has compared its action to a copyright lawsuit more than two decades ago against Napster, when record companies sued the file-sharing service for unlawful use of their material. The record companies won and Napster was soon gone, but it has had a major impact on the industry. Industry-endorsed streaming now dominates the music business.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689956124232.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — The New York Times is striking back against the threat that artificial intelligence poses to the news industry, filing a federal lawsuit Wednesday against OpenAI and Microsoft seeking to end the practice of using its stories to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/artificial-intelligence">train chatbots</a>.The Times says that the companies are threatening its livelihood by effectively stealing billions of dollars worth of work by its journalists, in some cases spitting out Times' material verbatim to people who seek answers from generative artificial intelligence like OpenAI's ChatGPT. The newspaper's lawsuit was filed in federal court in Manhattan.OpenAI and Microsoft did not respond to requests for comment.The media is one of many industries that could be upended by the rapid development of AI. Media organizations have already been pummeled by a migration of readers to online platforms and while many publications — most notably the Times — have successfully carved out a digital space, AI could become a significant threat.“These bots compete with the content they are trained on,” said Ian B. Crosby, partner and lead counsel at Susman Godfrey, which is representing The Times.Artificial intelligence companies scrape information available online, including articles published by news organizations, to train generative AI chatbots. The large language models are also trained on a huge trove of other human-written materials, such as instructional manuals and digital books. That helps them to build a strong command of language and grammar and to answer questions correctly.But the technology is still under development and gets many things wrong. In its lawsuit, for example, the Times said OpenAI’s GPT-4 falsely attributed product recommendations to Wirecutter, the paper’s product reviews site, endangering its reputation.OpenAI and other AI companies, including rival Anthropic, have attracted billions in investments very rapidly since public and business interest in the technology exploded, particularly this year.Microsoft has a partnership with OpenAI that allows it to capitalize on the company’s AI technology. The Redmond, Washington, tech giant is also OpenAI’s biggest backer and has invested at least $13 billion into the company since the two began their partnership in 2019, according to the lawsuit. As part of the agreement, Microsoft’s supercomputers help power OpenAI’s AI research and the tech giant integrates the startup’s technology into its products.The paper's complaint comes as the number of lawsuits filed against OpenAI for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sarah-silverman-suing-chatgpt-openai-ai-8927025139a8151e26053249d1aeec20">copyright infringement is growing</a>. The company has been sued by several writers — including comedian Sarah Silverman — who say their books were ingested to train OpenAI's AI models without their permission. In June, more than 4,000 writers signed a letter to the CEOs of OpenAI, Google, Microsoft, Meta and other AI developers accusing them of exploitative practices in building chatbots that “mimic and regurgitate” their language, style and ideas.As AI technology develops, growing fears over its use have also fueled labor strikes and lawsuits in other industries,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/artificial-intelligence-hollywood-strikes-explained-writers-actors-e872bd63ab52c3ea9f7d6e825240a202">including Hollywood</a>. Different stakeholders are realizing the technology could disrupt their entire business model, but the question will be how to respond to it, said Sarah Kreps, director of Cornell University’s Tech Policy Institute.Kreps said she agrees The New York Times is facing a threat from these chatbots, but she also argued solving the issue completely is going to be an uphill battle.“There’s so many other language models out there that are doing the same thing,” she said.The lawsuit filed Wednesday claims that generative AI tools developed by OpenAI and Microsoft are closely summarizing content from the Times, mimicking its style and even reciting it verbatim. The complaint cited examples of OpenAI’s GPT-4 spitting out large portions of news articles from the Times, including a Pulitzer-Prize winning investigation into New York City’s taxi industry that was published in 2019 and took 18 months to complete. It also cited outputs from Bing Chat — now called Copilot — that it said included verbatim excerpts from Times articles.The Times did not list specific damages that it is seeking, but said the legal action “seeks to hold them responsible for the billions of dollars in statutory and actual damages that they owe for the unlawful copying and use of The Times’s uniquely valuable works.” It is also asking the court to order the tech companies to destroy AI models or data sets that use its work.Web traffic is an important component of the paper's advertising revenue and helps drive subscriptions to its online site. The outputs from AI chatbots divert that traffic away from the paper and other copyright holders, the Times says, making it less likely that users will visit the original source for the information.Less traffic to the Times' Wirecutter articles, for example, means less people clicking on affiliate links, which in turn means less revenue for the paper's product review site.The New York Times said it’s never given permission to anyone to use its content for generative AI purposes. The lawsuit also follows what appears to be breakdowns in talks between the newspaper and the two companies that began in April, and could be a way to kickstart talks on ending a business dispute.The News/Media Alliance, a trade group representing more than 2,200 news organizations, applauded Wednesday's action by the Times.“Quality journalism and GenAI can complement each other if approached collaboratively,” said Danielle Coffey, alliance president and CEO. “But using journalism without permission or payment is unlawful, and certainly not fair use.”In July, OpenAI and The Associated Press&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/openai-chatgpt-associated-press-ap-f86f84c5bcc2f3b98074b38521f5f75a">announced a deal</a>&nbsp;for the artificial intelligence company to license AP’s archive of news stories. This month, OpenAI also signed a similar partnership with Axel Springer, a media company in Berlin that owns Politico and Business Insider. Under the deal, users of OpenAI’s ChatGPT will receive summaries of “selected global news content” from Axel Springer’s media brands. The companies said the answers to queries will include attribution and links to the original articles.The Times has compared its action to a copyright lawsuit more than two decades ago against Napster, when record companies sued the file-sharing service for unlawful use of their material. The record companies won and Napster was soon gone, but it has had a major impact on the industry. Industry-endorsed streaming now dominates the music business.

New York Times sues OpenAI and Microsoft for using its stories to train chatbots

Following is recent booking activity for the Saline County Jail, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County Jail.

All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Criminal restraint and Domestic Battery: rude physical contact

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body, Poss of marijuana, Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant, Breach of privacy;install concealed camcorder and Sexual exploit of child; poss media of child&lt;18

REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Failure to Appear,&nbsp;Criminal use of a financial card; W/o consent of owner less than $1,000 and T&nbsp;heft of prop/serv;&lt;$1500 3 business in 72 hrs

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Criminal Damage to Property; Value Unknown

NAME:&nbsp;Rodriguez-Taveres, Emmanuel Jesus

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Agg Domestic Battery: impede breathing/choke

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500

Following is recent booking activity for the Saline County Jail, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County Jail.All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703685526677.png" alt="Ardis, Brittany Nicole" />
 <figcaption>Ardis, Brittany Nicole</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Ardis, Brittany NicoleREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Criminal restraint and Domestic Battery: rude physical contact<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703685578191.png" alt="Marler, Michael Thomas" />
 <figcaption>Marler, Michael Thomas</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Marler, Michael ThomasREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body, Poss of marijuana, Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant, Breach of privacy;install concealed camcorder and Sexual exploit of child; poss media of child&lt;18<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703685645935.png" alt="Peterson, Mariah Lynese" />
 <figcaption>Peterson, Mariah Lynese</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Peterson, Mariah LyneseREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Failure to Appear,&nbsp;Criminal use of a financial card; W/o consent of owner less than $1,000 and T&nbsp;heft of prop/serv;&lt;$1500 3 business in 72 hrs<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703685733225.png" alt="Plante, Jessie Laren" />
 <figcaption>Plante, Jessie Laren</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Plante, Jessie LarenREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Criminal Damage to Property; Value Unknown<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703685789450.png" alt="Rodriguez-Taveres, Emmanuel Jesus" />
 <figcaption>Rodriguez-Taveres, Emmanuel Jesus</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Rodriguez-Taveres, Emmanuel JesusREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Agg Domestic Battery: impede breathing/choke<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703685848937.png" alt=" Schnell, Jaimie Lynne" />
 <figcaption> Schnell, Jaimie Lynne</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Schnell, Jaimie LynneREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703685903444.png" alt="Urbanek, Heather Marie" />
 <figcaption>Urbanek, Heather Marie</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Urbanek, Heather MarieREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500NAME: REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;NAME: REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;NAME: REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;

Saline County Jail Activity, Dec. 27

NAME:&nbsp;Born, Corey Keith REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; Contempt of Court; Direct

NAME:&nbsp;McCarter, Christopher Lee REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner

Following is recent booking activity for the Saline County Jail, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County Jail.All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703603746897.jpeg" alt="Born, Corey Keith" />
 <figcaption>Born, Corey Keith</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Born, Corey Keith REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; Contempt of Court; Direct<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703603782947.jpeg" alt="McCarter, Christopher Lee" />
 <figcaption>McCarter, Christopher Lee</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;McCarter, Christopher Lee REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner

Saline County Jail Activity, Dec. 26

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a robbery and have made an arrest.

Just before&nbsp;&nbsp;9 a.m. Dec. 22, police responded to a reported robbery at Dollar General, 1001 SW Fairlawn Road in Topeka, according to Police Lt. Edward Stanley.&nbsp;

Witnesses believed that the individual had a weapon and had stolen an undisclosed amount of cash from the store.

Investigators and patrol officers worked together to locate the individual, later identified as Chase W. Tillison, 37, of Topeka, in the 5300 block of SW 10th Street.&nbsp; 

As a result of the investigation, Tillison was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Aggravated Robbery and Interference with a Law Enforcement Officer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703356535567.png" alt="Tillison-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Tillison-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a robbery and have made an arrest.Just before&nbsp;&nbsp;9 a.m. Dec. 22, police responded to a reported robbery at Dollar General, 1001 SW Fairlawn Road in Topeka, according to Police Lt. Edward Stanley.&nbsp;Witnesses believed that the individual had a weapon and had stolen an undisclosed amount of cash from the store.Investigators and patrol officers worked together to locate the individual, later identified as Chase W. Tillison, 37, of Topeka, in the 5300 block of SW 10th Street.&nbsp; As a result of the investigation, Tillison was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Aggravated Robbery and Interference with a Law Enforcement Officer.

Police catch Kansas man who took cash from retail store

KANSAS CITY —Critical Incident Response Team K9 Lola is now the subject of a new children’s book.&nbsp; Pawsitively Lola, A Service Dog’s Adventures by author Mike Dickerson.

The book became available from Friesen Press on December 19. It’s the third in a series about service dogs in the Kansas City area. It’s available on Amazon and all other book-selling platforms as a soft cover, hard cover or e-book. 

Dickerson, of Lathrop, Missouri., tells the story of how K9 Lola went from rescue dog to a rescuer who helps people when they are in crisis, in partnership with her handler, Kim Hunter. 

The book features pictures of a day in the life of K9 Lola.“Through word of mouth, I had heard about Lola’s impact on people around Kansas City,” Dickerson said. “I wanted to show people what she does.”Dickerson is donating all proceeds from the book’s sales to the Clay County Sheriff’s Office HALO (Helping All Live Optimally) Team. The HALO Team is a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that assists Sheriff’s Office employees experiencing financial crisis.

Dickerson's other book titles include Pawsitively Dax and Pawsitively Rasta.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703112322410.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Critical Incident Response Team K9 Lola is now the subject of a new children’s book.&nbsp; Pawsitively Lola, A Service Dog’s Adventures by author Mike Dickerson.The book became available from Friesen Press on December 19. It’s the third in a series about service dogs in the Kansas City area. It’s available on Amazon and all other book-selling platforms as a soft cover, hard cover or e-book. Dickerson, of Lathrop, Missouri., tells the story of how K9 Lola went from rescue dog to a rescuer who helps people when they are in crisis, in partnership with her handler, Kim Hunter. The book features pictures of a day in the life of K9 Lola.“Through word of mouth, I had heard about Lola’s impact on people around Kansas City,” Dickerson said. “I wanted to show people what she does.”Dickerson is donating all proceeds from the book’s sales to the Clay County Sheriff’s Office HALO (Helping All Live Optimally) Team. The HALO Team is a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that assists Sheriff’s Office employees experiencing financial crisis.Dickerson's other book titles include Pawsitively Dax and Pawsitively Rasta.

Another KC-area sheriff's K9 featured in new children’s book

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for an alleged theft and additional crimes.

Just after 3p.m. Wednesday, police&nbsp; responded to a package theft in the 1700 block of SW Shunga Drive in Topeka, according to police spokesperson Rosie Nichols.

As a result of collaboration between patrol officers and community police officers, a suspect was identified as Edward L. Swarthout, 41, of Topeka.

Around 4 p.m., community police officers located Swarthout in the 700 block of SW Fairlawn Road. They also found&nbsp;the stolen items and narcotics. 

Police arrested Swarthout and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of theft, Possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant, Possession of marijuana and Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703173196930.png" alt="Swarthout -photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Swarthout -photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for an alleged theft and additional crimes.Just after 3p.m. Wednesday, police&nbsp; responded to a package theft in the 1700 block of SW Shunga Drive in Topeka, according to police spokesperson Rosie Nichols.As a result of collaboration between patrol officers and community police officers, a suspect was identified as Edward L. Swarthout, 41, of Topeka.Around 4 p.m., community police officers located Swarthout in the 700 block of SW Fairlawn Road. They also found&nbsp;the stolen items and narcotics. Police arrested Swarthout and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of theft, Possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant, Possession of marijuana and Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body.

Police capture Kansas porch pirate, recover stolen items

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a deadly shooting have made an arrest

Just before 6p.m. Friday, police were dispatched to a shooting in the 600 block of SW Fillmore in Topeka, according to Police Lt. Ron Ekis. First responders found&nbsp;45-year-old Jennifer Eisele of Topeka. suffering from a gunshot wound. She was pronounced deceased at the scene.&nbsp;

As a result of the investigation, police arrested Steven Hunter Jr., 46, of Topeka and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections, according to Police Lt. Donna Eubanks.

He is being held on requested charges of Murder in the 1st degree; intentional,&nbsp;&nbsp;Criminal possession of a weapon by a felon, Interference with law enforcement officer; knowingly flee by means other than a motor vehicle for felony case, according to&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703433514556.png" alt="Hunter-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Hunter-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a deadly shooting have made an arrest<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703333783490.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>Just before 6p.m. Friday, police were dispatched to a shooting in the 600 block of SW Fillmore in Topeka, according to Police Lt. Ron Ekis. First responders found&nbsp;45-year-old Jennifer Eisele of Topeka. suffering from a gunshot wound. She was pronounced deceased at the scene.&nbsp;As a result of the investigation, police arrested Steven Hunter Jr., 46, of Topeka and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections, according to Police Lt. Donna Eubanks.He is being held on requested charges of Murder in the 1st degree; intentional,&nbsp;&nbsp;Criminal possession of a weapon by a felon, Interference with law enforcement officer; knowingly flee by means other than a motor vehicle for felony case, according to&nbsp;

Police capture suspect wanted for murder of Kansas woman

NEW YORK (AP) — If anything about Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas is You” annoys you, best to avoid shopping malls now. Or the radio. Maybe music altogether, for that matter.

Her 1994 carol dominates holiday music like nothing else.

The Christmas colossus has reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart the past four years in a row — measuring the most popular songs each week by airplay, sales and streaming, not just the holiday-themed — and it’s reasonable to assume 2023 will be no different. One expert predicts it will soon exceed $100 million in earnings. Even its ringtone has sold millions.

“That song is just embedded in history now,” says&nbsp;<a href="https://davidfoster.com/">David Foster</a>, the 16-time Grammy-winning composer and producer. “It’s embedded in Christmas. When you think of Christmas right now, you think of that song.”

Yet the story behind “All I Want for Christmas is You” is not all holly and mistletoe.

The song’s co-authors, Carey and Walter Afanasieff, are in a mystifying feud. The authors of a different song with the same title have sued seeking $20 million in damages. While Carey calls herself the Queen of Christmas, her bid to trademark that title failed.

Every year on Nov. 1, the song’s hibernation ends when Carey posts on social media that “it’s time” to play it again. This year’s message depicted her being freed from a block of ice to make the declaration.

In both music and lyrics, the song was perfectly engineered for success, says&nbsp;<a href="https://college.berklee.edu/faculty/joe-bennett">Joe Bennett</a>, musicologist and professor at the Berklee College of Music. And it came from an artist who was at the top of her game at the time.

“All I Want for Christmas is You” works as a love and holiday song. Carey sets it up: She doesn’t care about all the holiday trappings, she has one thing — one person — on her mind. She sprinkles in specific holiday references, from Santa Claus to mistletoe.

The instruments and brisk arrangement recall Phil Spector’s 1965 album, “A Christmas Gift for You,” itself a holiday classic. To top it off, part of the melody slyly references “White Christmas,” Bennett says.

“That was my goal, to do something timeless,” Carey explained in a recent “Good Morning America” interview.

Billboard has produced lists of top seasonal hits since 2010, and “All I Want for Christmas is You” has been No. 1 for 57 of the 62 weeks it has run, said Gary Trust, chart director. Will Page, Spotify’s former chief economist and author of the book “Pivot,” estimates the song will exceed $100 million in earnings this holiday season.

“By most objective measures,” Bennett says, “it’s the most successful Christmas song of all time.”

As Afanasieff has told it, much of the work on “All I Want for Christmas is You” was done by him and Carey working in a rented house in the summer of 1994. The team had a history, working on Carey's albums “Emotions” and “Music Box.”

He started with a boogie-woogie piano, tossing out melodic ideas that Carey would respond to with lyrics, he said on&nbsp;<a href="https://wdrv.com/mariah-careys-co-writer-says-her-version-of-how-her-christmas-hit-was-written-is-a-tall-tale/">last year’s podcast</a>, “Hot Takes &amp; Deep Dives with Jess Rothschild” (Afanasieff did not return messages from The Associated Press). Later, Carey completed the lyrics herself and Afanasieff recorded all the instruments, he said.

Then things became complicated. Carey was married at the time to Tommy Mottola, head of Sony Music. They broke up in 1997 and her relationship with Afanasieff, who kept working for Mottola, became a casualty of that fractured marriage. Afanasieff said they've spoken once in more than 20 years, and it his contributions have been written out of Carey's telling of the song's creation.

On “Good Morning America” last month, she said, "I was working on it by myself so I was writing on this little Casio keyboard, writing down words and thinking about, ’What do I think about Christmas? What do I love? What do I want? What do I dream of?” she says. “And that’s what started it.”

Afanasieff sounds almost bewildered by the turn of events. He&nbsp;<a href="https://variety.com/2019/music/news/mariah-carey-all-i-want-for-christmas-co-writer-walter-afanasieff-interview-1203447527/">told Variety in 1999</a>&nbsp;that every holiday season he has to defend himself against people who don’t believe he co-wrote the song.

“Mariah has been very wonderful, positive and a force of nature,” he told Variety. “She’s the one that made the song a hit and she’s awesome. But she definitely does not share credit where credit is due."

Last month, songwriters Andy Stone and Troy Powers&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/hughmcintyre/2023/11/03/mariah-carey-is-being-sued-over-all-i-want-for-christmas-is-you-again/?sh=4d07dc9d2667">sued Carey and Afanasieff</a>&nbsp;in federal court in California, seeking $20 million in copyright infringement and citing their own 1989 country song, “All I Want for Christmas is You.”

Their song has a similar theme, with a narrator desiring a love interest before Christmas comforts. The writers cite an “overwhelming likelihood” that Carey and Afanasieff had heard their song.

The two songs have no musical similarities, Berklee’s Bennett says, and the theme is hardly unique. He pointed out Bing Crosby’s “You’re All I Want for Christmas,” Carla Thomas’ “All I Want for Christmas is You” and Buck Owens’ “All I Want for Christmas, Dear, is You.”

Says the musicologist: “It’s nonsense.”

In his podcast appearance, Afanasieff noted how Foster once told him that “All I Want for Christmas is You” was the last song to enter the Christmas canon and “that vault is sealed.”

Foster told AP he exaggerated a little, but not a lot. Writing a new holiday song is brutally hard, since you’re competing with not just current hits but hundreds of years of songs and memories. The old classics never go away.

“I just stay away from them, because they scare me,” Foster says. “Lyrically, it’s sort of all been done before — better than I can ever do.”

While he appreciates Foster’s compliment, Afanasieff told Rothschild that he hoped others don’t take it to heart.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703367567358.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — If anything about Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas is You” annoys you, best to avoid shopping malls now. Or the radio. Maybe music altogether, for that matter.Her 1994 carol dominates holiday music like nothing else.The Christmas colossus has reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart the past four years in a row — measuring the most popular songs each week by airplay, sales and streaming, not just the holiday-themed — and it’s reasonable to assume 2023 will be no different. One expert predicts it will soon exceed $100 million in earnings. Even its ringtone has sold millions.“That song is just embedded in history now,” says&nbsp;<a href="https://davidfoster.com/">David Foster</a>, the 16-time Grammy-winning composer and producer. “It’s embedded in Christmas. When you think of Christmas right now, you think of that song.”Yet the story behind “All I Want for Christmas is You” is not all holly and mistletoe.The song’s co-authors, Carey and Walter Afanasieff, are in a mystifying feud. The authors of a different song with the same title have sued seeking $20 million in damages. While Carey calls herself the Queen of Christmas, her bid to trademark that title failed.Every year on Nov. 1, the song’s hibernation ends when Carey posts on social media that “it’s time” to play it again. This year’s message depicted her being freed from a block of ice to make the declaration.In both music and lyrics, the song was perfectly engineered for success, says&nbsp;<a href="https://college.berklee.edu/faculty/joe-bennett">Joe Bennett</a>, musicologist and professor at the Berklee College of Music. And it came from an artist who was at the top of her game at the time.“All I Want for Christmas is You” works as a love and holiday song. Carey sets it up: She doesn’t care about all the holiday trappings, she has one thing — one person — on her mind. She sprinkles in specific holiday references, from Santa Claus to mistletoe.The instruments and brisk arrangement recall Phil Spector’s 1965 album, “A Christmas Gift for You,” itself a holiday classic. To top it off, part of the melody slyly references “White Christmas,” Bennett says.“That was my goal, to do something timeless,” Carey explained in a recent “Good Morning America” interview.Billboard has produced lists of top seasonal hits since 2010, and “All I Want for Christmas is You” has been No. 1 for 57 of the 62 weeks it has run, said Gary Trust, chart director. Will Page, Spotify’s former chief economist and author of the book “Pivot,” estimates the song will exceed $100 million in earnings this holiday season.“By most objective measures,” Bennett says, “it’s the most successful Christmas song of all time.”As Afanasieff has told it, much of the work on “All I Want for Christmas is You” was done by him and Carey working in a rented house in the summer of 1994. The team had a history, working on Carey's albums “Emotions” and “Music Box.”He started with a boogie-woogie piano, tossing out melodic ideas that Carey would respond to with lyrics, he said on&nbsp;<a href="https://wdrv.com/mariah-careys-co-writer-says-her-version-of-how-her-christmas-hit-was-written-is-a-tall-tale/">last year’s podcast</a>, “Hot Takes &amp; Deep Dives with Jess Rothschild” (Afanasieff did not return messages from The Associated Press). Later, Carey completed the lyrics herself and Afanasieff recorded all the instruments, he said.Then things became complicated. Carey was married at the time to Tommy Mottola, head of Sony Music. They broke up in 1997 and her relationship with Afanasieff, who kept working for Mottola, became a casualty of that fractured marriage. Afanasieff said they've spoken once in more than 20 years, and it his contributions have been written out of Carey's telling of the song's creation.On “Good Morning America” last month, she said, "I was working on it by myself so I was writing on this little Casio keyboard, writing down words and thinking about, ’What do I think about Christmas? What do I love? What do I want? What do I dream of?” she says. “And that’s what started it.”Afanasieff sounds almost bewildered by the turn of events. He&nbsp;<a href="https://variety.com/2019/music/news/mariah-carey-all-i-want-for-christmas-co-writer-walter-afanasieff-interview-1203447527/">told Variety in 1999</a>&nbsp;that every holiday season he has to defend himself against people who don’t believe he co-wrote the song.“Mariah has been very wonderful, positive and a force of nature,” he told Variety. “She’s the one that made the song a hit and she’s awesome. But she definitely does not share credit where credit is due."Last month, songwriters Andy Stone and Troy Powers&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/hughmcintyre/2023/11/03/mariah-carey-is-being-sued-over-all-i-want-for-christmas-is-you-again/?sh=4d07dc9d2667">sued Carey and Afanasieff</a>&nbsp;in federal court in California, seeking $20 million in copyright infringement and citing their own 1989 country song, “All I Want for Christmas is You.”Their song has a similar theme, with a narrator desiring a love interest before Christmas comforts. The writers cite an “overwhelming likelihood” that Carey and Afanasieff had heard their song.The two songs have no musical similarities, Berklee’s Bennett says, and the theme is hardly unique. He pointed out Bing Crosby’s “You’re All I Want for Christmas,” Carla Thomas’ “All I Want for Christmas is You” and Buck Owens’ “All I Want for Christmas, Dear, is You.”Says the musicologist: “It’s nonsense.”In his podcast appearance, Afanasieff noted how Foster once told him that “All I Want for Christmas is You” was the last song to enter the Christmas canon and “that vault is sealed.”Foster told AP he exaggerated a little, but not a lot. Writing a new holiday song is brutally hard, since you’re competing with not just current hits but hundreds of years of songs and memories. The old classics never go away.“I just stay away from them, because they scare me,” Foster says. “Lyrically, it’s sort of all been done before — better than I can ever do.”While he appreciates Foster’s compliment, Afanasieff told Rothschild that he hoped others don’t take it to heart.

Why Mariah Carey's 'All I Want for Christmas is You' became so popular

SHAWNEE COUNTY–Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with an incident that occurred on December 15,&nbsp; in the 1100 block of South West Washburn Ave, where a male subject struck a Shawnee County Sheriff’s Deputy with a vehicle.

Shortly before 3:30 Dec. 22, members of the Fugitive Warrants Unit, Uniformed Patrol Division, K-9 Unit, and Investigations Division, responded to the 1400 block of South West 72nd Terrace in Shawnee County to execute a felony arrest warrant for the subject wanted in connection with striking the deputy.

While at that location, deputies arrested 39-year-old James Rich of Topeka. During execution of the warrant, deputies also arrested the homeowner identified as 53-year-old James Allen Jr., of Topeka on an unrelated warrant.

Rich was booked into the Shawnee County Department of corrections on requested charges of aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer, felony criminal damage to property, felony interference with a law enforcement officer, felony theft, and a fugitive from justice charge in connection with a felony absconder charge from the Michigan Department of Corrections.&nbsp; &nbsp;The sheriff's office released no additional details on the deputy's condition or recovery.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703355987542.png" alt="Rich-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Rich-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY–Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with an incident that occurred on December 15,&nbsp; in the 1100 block of South West Washburn Ave, where a male subject struck a Shawnee County Sheriff’s Deputy with a vehicle.Shortly before 3:30 Dec. 22, members of the Fugitive Warrants Unit, Uniformed Patrol Division, K-9 Unit, and Investigations Division, responded to the 1400 block of South West 72nd Terrace in Shawnee County to execute a felony arrest warrant for the subject wanted in connection with striking the deputy.While at that location, deputies arrested 39-year-old James Rich of Topeka. During execution of the warrant, deputies also arrested the homeowner identified as 53-year-old James Allen Jr., of Topeka on an unrelated warrant.Rich was booked into the Shawnee County Department of corrections on requested charges of aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer, felony criminal damage to property, felony interference with a law enforcement officer, felony theft, and a fugitive from justice charge in connection with a felony absconder charge from the Michigan Department of Corrections.&nbsp; &nbsp;The sheriff's office released no additional details on the deputy's condition or recovery.

Suspect who struck Kansas deputy with a vehicle is in custody

KANSAS CITY —A Kansas man has been charged through a criminal complaint in Kansas City, Kansas, for allegedly robbing a bank.

According to court documents, Cesar Serrano, 46, of Overland Park is charged with one count of bank robbery.

On December 16, 2023, Serrano allegedly used a firearm to demand money from employees at Great Southern Bank in Prairie Village, Kansas. He was arrested and booked into jail late Sunday, according to online jail records.

The defendant was scheduled for his initial court appearance on December 20, 2023, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Angel D. Mitchell of the U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 25 years in prison.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703025399081.png" alt="Serrano photo Johnson Co." />
 <figcaption>Serrano photo Johnson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A Kansas man has been charged through a criminal complaint in Kansas City, Kansas, for allegedly robbing a bank.According to court documents, Cesar Serrano, 46, of Overland Park is charged with one count of bank robbery.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702817029294.png" alt="photo Prairie Village Police" />
 <figcaption>photo Prairie Village Police</figcaption>
 </figure>On December 16, 2023, Serrano allegedly used a firearm to demand money from employees at Great Southern Bank in Prairie Village, Kansas. He was arrested and booked into jail late Sunday, according to online jail records.The defendant was scheduled for his initial court appearance on December 20, 2023, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Angel D. Mitchell of the U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 25 years in prison.

Suspect in December Kan. bank robbery is arrested and charged 

DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement and fire officials are investigating the cause of a fire at a popular bar near the University of Kansas.

On Friday morning, crews responded to a fire at The Wagon Wheel,&nbsp; 507 W. 14th Street, in Lawrence, according to a media release from Lawrence-Douglas County Fire and Medical.

&nbsp;Crews found and extinguished fire on the outside of the building. The business was unoccupied and there were no injuries reported.

Investigators determined the fire was intentionally set and identified a suspect identified according to sheriff's office booking report as 39-year-old Robert Shane Johnson on a requested charge of arson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703337662127.png" alt="Google image" />
 <figcaption>Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement and fire officials are investigating the cause of a fire at a popular bar near the University of Kansas.On Friday morning, crews responded to a fire at The Wagon Wheel,&nbsp; 507 W. 14th Street, in Lawrence, according to a media release from Lawrence-Douglas County Fire and Medical.&nbsp;Crews found and extinguished fire on the outside of the building. The business was unoccupied and there were no injuries reported.Investigators determined the fire was intentionally set and identified a suspect identified according to sheriff's office booking report as 39-year-old Robert Shane Johnson on a requested charge of arson.Police released no additional details.

Arrest made in alleged arson fire at popular bar near KU campus

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas woman after her arrest following a 2-vehicle crash.

Just after 11:30 p.m. Dec. 20, police responded to an injury crash involving a vehicle and a motorcycle near SW 29th St. and SW Topeka Blvd. in Topeka, according to a media release.

First responders found the two vehicles had crashed. An ambulance transported he driver of the motorcycle to a local hospital to be treated for life-threatening injuries. 

The driver of the other involved vehicle was identified as Shana L. Estes, 36, of Topeka. It was determined that she had a warrant for her arrest and she was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on that warrant.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703284509788.png" alt="Estes photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Estes photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas woman after her arrest following a 2-vehicle crash.Just after 11:30 p.m. Dec. 20, police responded to an injury crash involving a vehicle and a motorcycle near SW 29th St. and SW Topeka Blvd. in Topeka, according to a media release.First responders found the two vehicles had crashed. An ambulance transported he driver of the motorcycle to a local hospital to be treated for life-threatening injuries. The driver of the other involved vehicle was identified as Shana L. Estes, 36, of Topeka. It was determined that she had a warrant for her arrest and she was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on that warrant.

Kan. woman jailed following crash that injured motorcyclist

NAME:&nbsp;Balentine, Savannah Rae REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; Contempt of Court; Direct

NAME:&nbsp;Bentley, Michael Ashton REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; Agg Domestic Battery: unknown circumstance Criminal threat; Cause terror, evacuation or disruption Domestic Battery: rude physical contact 2nd Robbery

NAME:&nbsp;Dennis, Trevor Leon REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Violation of protection order; Unknown circumstance Failure to appear Failure to appear Unsafe turning or stopping - Fail to Signal Fleeing or attempting to elude a LEO; Unknown severity Reckless Driving Speeding; maximum limits Fail to yield at stop or yield sign

NAME:&nbsp;Dodge, Callan Brooke REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; Interf w/LEO; obstr/resist/oppose misd warrant Criminal littering; Public property

NAME:&nbsp;Hulse, William Merl REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; Criminal threat; Cause terror, evacuation or disruption

NAME:&nbsp;McMillin, Shane Douglas REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; Driving While Suspended Flee or attempt to elude; avoid tire device Failure to appear

NAME:&nbsp;Morales, Anthony Luis REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; Failure to appear

NAME:&nbsp;Perdue, Michael Eugene REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; Computer unlawful acts; Unauth access Stalking; After served a protection order prohibiting contact; 2nd or subs

NAME:&nbsp;Poole, David Delana REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; Agg Domestic Battery: impede breathing/choke

NAME:&nbsp;Simmons, Kail Isaiah REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; Probation Violation Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body FTY to Emergency vehicle Driving while habitual violator Poss of marijuana

NAME: Dyson, Michael Dewayne REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit

Following is recent booking activity for the Saline County Jail, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County Jail.All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703251898832.jpeg" alt=" Balentine, Savannah Rae" />
 <figcaption> Balentine, Savannah Rae</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Balentine, Savannah Rae REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; Contempt of Court; Direct<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703282050257.jpeg" alt="Bentley, Michael Ashton" />
 <figcaption>Bentley, Michael Ashton</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Bentley, Michael Ashton REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; Agg Domestic Battery: unknown circumstance Criminal threat; Cause terror, evacuation or disruption Domestic Battery: rude physical contact 2nd Robbery<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703252011215.jpeg" alt=" Dennis, Trevor Leon" />
 <figcaption> Dennis, Trevor Leon</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Dennis, Trevor Leon REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Violation of protection order; Unknown circumstance Failure to appear Failure to appear Unsafe turning or stopping - Fail to Signal Fleeing or attempting to elude a LEO; Unknown severity Reckless Driving Speeding; maximum limits Fail to yield at stop or yield sign<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703252072182.jpeg" alt="Dodge, Callan Brooke" />
 <figcaption>Dodge, Callan Brooke</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Dodge, Callan Brooke REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; Interf w/LEO; obstr/resist/oppose misd warrant Criminal littering; Public property<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703252110917.jpeg" alt="Hulse, William Merl" />
 <figcaption>Hulse, William Merl</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Hulse, William Merl REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; Criminal threat; Cause terror, evacuation or disruption<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703252156066.jpeg" alt=" McMillin, Shane Douglas" />
 <figcaption> McMillin, Shane Douglas</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;McMillin, Shane Douglas REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; Driving While Suspended Flee or attempt to elude; avoid tire device Failure to appear<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688562049999.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Morales, Anthony Luis REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; Failure to appear<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703252223881.jpeg" alt="Perdue, Michael Eugene" />
 <figcaption>Perdue, Michael Eugene</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Perdue, Michael Eugene REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; Computer unlawful acts; Unauth access Stalking; After served a protection order prohibiting contact; 2nd or subs<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703252259764.jpeg" alt="Poole, David Delana" />
 <figcaption>Poole, David Delana</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Poole, David Delana REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; Agg Domestic Battery: impede breathing/choke<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703252297825.jpeg" alt="Simmons, Kail Isaiah" />
 <figcaption>Simmons, Kail Isaiah</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Simmons, Kail Isaiah REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; Probation Violation Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body FTY to Emergency vehicle Driving while habitual violator Poss of marijuana<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703282127671.jpeg" alt="Dyson, Michael Dewayne" />
 <figcaption>Dyson, Michael Dewayne</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME: Dyson, Michael Dewayne REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit

Saline County Jail Activity, Dec. 22

LYON COUNTY—A Kansas man involved in a deadly 5-vehicle crash in April is now facing a murder charge.&nbsp;

Just before 6:30p.m. April 5,&nbsp; a 2014 Kenworth semi driven by Travis D. Edwards, 46, Marysville, was eastbound on U.S. 50 four miles west of Emporia, according to the Kansas Highway Patrol.

The semi traveled left of center and struck a westbound 2014 Subaru CrossTrek driven by Timothy M.&nbsp;Hoekstra, 67, Chino, California. 

After impact the Subaru rotated counterclockwise into the eastbound lane and struck an eastbound 2021 Kenworth semi driven by Quintia M. Rowe, 32, Norfolk, Virginia.

The 2014 Kenworth semi continued westbound over the center line and struck a westbound&nbsp; 2019 Jeep Renegade driven by Ryan R. Miller, 29, Independence, Missouri and a 2017 Ford Escape driven by Jacob L.&nbsp;Suenram, 32, Lawrence.

Miller and Suenram were pronounced dead at the scene.

EMS transported Edwards and Hoekstra to Newman Regional Health in Emporia. Rowe was not injured.&nbsp;One juvenile was present in the 2017 Ford.&nbsp;

Edwards was booked into the Lyon County jail this week and is being held on a $100,000 bond for Murder in the Second Degree, Aggravated Battery; Reckless Great Bodily Harm or Disfigurement,&nbsp; Interference with law enforcement, Conceal/alter/destroy evidence felony case, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703089238236.png" alt="Edwards-photo Lyon County" />
 <figcaption>Edwards-photo Lyon County</figcaption>
 </figure>LYON COUNTY—A Kansas man involved in a deadly 5-vehicle crash in April is now facing a murder charge.&nbsp;Just before 6:30p.m. April 5,&nbsp; a 2014 Kenworth semi driven by Travis D. Edwards, 46, Marysville, was eastbound on U.S. 50 four miles west of Emporia, according to the Kansas Highway Patrol.The semi traveled left of center and struck a westbound 2014 Subaru CrossTrek driven by Timothy M.&nbsp;Hoekstra, 67, Chino, California. After impact the Subaru rotated counterclockwise into the eastbound lane and struck an eastbound 2021 Kenworth semi driven by Quintia M. Rowe, 32, Norfolk, Virginia.The 2014 Kenworth semi continued westbound over the center line and struck a westbound&nbsp; 2019 Jeep Renegade driven by Ryan R. Miller, 29, Independence, Missouri and a 2017 Ford Escape driven by Jacob L.&nbsp;Suenram, 32, Lawrence.Miller and Suenram were pronounced dead at the scene.EMS transported Edwards and Hoekstra to Newman Regional Health in Emporia. Rowe was not injured.&nbsp;One juvenile was present in the 2017 Ford.&nbsp;Edwards was booked into the Lyon County jail this week and is being held on a $100,000 bond for Murder in the Second Degree, Aggravated Battery; Reckless Great Bodily Harm or Disfigurement,&nbsp; Interference with law enforcement, Conceal/alter/destroy evidence felony case, according to online jail records.

Kansas man charged after 5-vehicle crash left 2 dead

PAWNEE COUNTY&nbsp; – John Freemen Colt, 45, who escaped from the sex offender program at Larned State Hospital in June of 2021 appeared in the Pawnee County District Court, Wednesday morning for a Preliminary Hearing on felony charges, according to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett.

Testimony presented at the hearing indicated the Sexual Predator Treatment Program administrative staff were first notified at approximately 8:15 a.m. on June 30, 2021, about concerns of a professionally dressed unidentified male staff member having been on the Sexual Predator Treatment Program housing unit earlier in the morning.

The unknown individual had indicated to unit staff that he was new to Larned State Hospital and needed help finding his way out of the building. Initial resident counts by unit staff did not suggest any elopements concerns at that point. Attempts were then made by administrative staff to identify the unknown individual by reviewing surveillance footage. The surveillance footage showed the individual in question walking out the front doors of the Dillon Building at 7:09 a.m.

Reviewing the footage backwards, Larned State Hospital administrative staff attempted to determine when the unknown individual first appeared in the building and/or on the unit in question. While the review of surveillance footage was being attempted, the building in question experienced a power outage which impacted the camera system, intercoms, and electronically controlled doors. As a result of the outage, the building was placed in a security lockdown at approximately 10:30 a.m.. Administrative staff further testified that subsequent hourly resident counts by unit mental health staff still did not suggest any elopement concerns. Power was not restored until approximately 11:30 a.m.

At approximately 11:45 a.m., administrative staff concluded that the unknown individual was a Sexual Predator Treatment Program resident. The footage showed a resident entering the restroom wearing a hooded coat to conceal their identity. When the unidentified individual reemerged, they were wearing an Larned State Hospital issued employee facemask, well-fitting professional clothing, and an employee name badge. Covid protocols in place at the time required staff to wear masks. An emergency “face to face” count was then ordered to be conducted by Larned State Hospital Safety and Security Staff. The hospital Security Chief testified his staff had not been notified of any elopement concern prior to that point.

They also had not participated in the review of the surveillance footage. Security staff going room by room determined John Colt was unaccounted for and that Colt had used pillows and blankets to make it appear he was sleeping in his room. 

According to the testimony of staff, the surveillance footage revealed that in addition to different clothing Colt dramatically changed his appearance by cutting his normally long hair and beard. Upon the elopement discovery, Security staff locked down the campus, set up a security perimeter and notified local law enforcement of the elopement. 

The security chief further testified that a critical review of the incident occurred which has resulted in stricter security protocols being implemented and new technologies being utilized to prevent this type of elopement from occurring in the future.

An area farmer testified at the hearing that at approximately 11:00 a.m., an unknown professionally dressed man approached his farmstead, which is located a few miles west of Larned State Hospital, claiming to have had car trouble and needing a ride into town. The farmer gave the man a ride into a local convenience store. The farmer identified Colt as being the individual he’d given a ride.

Following the elopement, the Pawnee County Sheriff’s Department took over the investigation with the assistance of the Kansas Bureau of Investigation and US Marshal Service. Pawnee County Sheriff Detective Jacob Robison testified his investigation determined that after being dropped off at the convenience store Colt walked to the residence of co-defendant Rachel Rena Perez, 52, of Larned.

Colt then left the area on a motorcycle he’d arranged to purchase with the assistance of Perez. Perez is currently in the custody of the Pawnee County Sheriff having recently been sentenced to 16 months in the custody of the Kansas Department of Corrections for her relationship with Colt and role in the escape.

Detective Robison further testified his investigation determined Colt had relationships with several female LSH staff members, had requested assistance from them, and that he utilized a cellular telephone and several social media accounts to communicate with those staff members outside of Larned State Hospital. It was through the review of those accounts which led to law enforcement identifying the motorcycle utilized to leave the area.

 Following a nationwide manhunt, Colt was arrested while driving the motorcycle in Wayne County, Utah on September 27, 2021.

Following the presentation of evidence, Magistrate Judge Julie Cowell found the State presented sufficient evidence to support the charges and bound the defendant over to the higher court on one count of Aggravated Escape from Custody and five counts of Violation of the Kansas Offender Registration Act. Arraignment has been scheduled for February 12, 2024.

If convicted of the current felony charges, Colt&nbsp; faces between 17 months and 46 months in the custody of the Kansas Department of Corrections depending on his criminal history.

John Freemen Colt, 45, is now back in the custody of the Sexual Predator Treatment Program on the campus of Larned State Hospital, after he served a 21 month term with the Federal Bureau of Prisons on a conviction for Failing to Register under the Federal Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703120850192.png" alt="Colt as shown in his current Pawnee County booking photo" />
 <figcaption>Colt as shown in his current Pawnee County booking photo</figcaption>
 </figure>PAWNEE COUNTY&nbsp; – John Freemen Colt, 45, who escaped from the sex offender program at Larned State Hospital in June of 2021 appeared in the Pawnee County District Court, Wednesday morning for a Preliminary Hearing on felony charges, according to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett.Testimony presented at the hearing indicated the Sexual Predator Treatment Program administrative staff were first notified at approximately 8:15 a.m. on June 30, 2021, about concerns of a professionally dressed unidentified male staff member having been on the Sexual Predator Treatment Program housing unit earlier in the morning.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1625086515798.png" alt="Colt as shown in security camera images on the day of. his escape" />
 <figcaption>Colt as shown in security camera images on the day of. his escape</figcaption>
 </figure>The unknown individual had indicated to unit staff that he was new to Larned State Hospital and needed help finding his way out of the building. Initial resident counts by unit staff did not suggest any elopements concerns at that point. Attempts were then made by administrative staff to identify the unknown individual by reviewing surveillance footage. The surveillance footage showed the individual in question walking out the front doors of the Dillon Building at 7:09 a.m.Reviewing the footage backwards, Larned State Hospital administrative staff attempted to determine when the unknown individual first appeared in the building and/or on the unit in question. While the review of surveillance footage was being attempted, the building in question experienced a power outage which impacted the camera system, intercoms, and electronically controlled doors. As a result of the outage, the building was placed in a security lockdown at approximately 10:30 a.m.. Administrative staff further testified that subsequent hourly resident counts by unit mental health staff still did not suggest any elopement concerns. Power was not restored until approximately 11:30 a.m.At approximately 11:45 a.m., administrative staff concluded that the unknown individual was a Sexual Predator Treatment Program resident. The footage showed a resident entering the restroom wearing a hooded coat to conceal their identity. When the unidentified individual reemerged, they were wearing an Larned State Hospital issued employee facemask, well-fitting professional clothing, and an employee name badge. Covid protocols in place at the time required staff to wear masks. An emergency “face to face” count was then ordered to be conducted by Larned State Hospital Safety and Security Staff. The hospital Security Chief testified his staff had not been notified of any elopement concern prior to that point.They also had not participated in the review of the surveillance footage. Security staff going room by room determined John Colt was unaccounted for and that Colt had used pillows and blankets to make it appear he was sleeping in his room. According to the testimony of staff, the surveillance footage revealed that in addition to different clothing Colt dramatically changed his appearance by cutting his normally long hair and beard. Upon the elopement discovery, Security staff locked down the campus, set up a security perimeter and notified local law enforcement of the elopement. The security chief further testified that a critical review of the incident occurred which has resulted in stricter security protocols being implemented and new technologies being utilized to prevent this type of elopement from occurring in the future.An area farmer testified at the hearing that at approximately 11:00 a.m., an unknown professionally dressed man approached his farmstead, which is located a few miles west of Larned State Hospital, claiming to have had car trouble and needing a ride into town. The farmer gave the man a ride into a local convenience store. The farmer identified Colt as being the individual he’d given a ride.Following the elopement, the Pawnee County Sheriff’s Department took over the investigation with the assistance of the Kansas Bureau of Investigation and US Marshal Service. Pawnee County Sheriff Detective Jacob Robison testified his investigation determined that after being dropped off at the convenience store Colt walked to the residence of co-defendant Rachel Rena Perez, 52, of Larned.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703121551065.png" alt="Earlier this month District Judge Bruce Gatterman sentenced Rachel Rena Perez, 52, of Larned, to a sentence of 16 months in the custody of the Kansas Department of Corrections for her role in Colt's escape.-photo KBI Offender Registry" />
 <figcaption>Earlier this month District Judge Bruce Gatterman sentenced Rachel Rena Perez, 52, of Larned, to a sentence of 16 months in the custody of the Kansas Department of Corrections for her role in Colt's escape.-photo KBI Offender Registry</figcaption>
 </figure>Colt then left the area on a motorcycle he’d arranged to purchase with the assistance of Perez. Perez is currently in the custody of the Pawnee County Sheriff having recently been sentenced to 16 months in the custody of the Kansas Department of Corrections for her relationship with Colt and role in the escape.Detective Robison further testified his investigation determined Colt had relationships with several female LSH staff members, had requested assistance from them, and that he utilized a cellular telephone and several social media accounts to communicate with those staff members outside of Larned State Hospital. It was through the review of those accounts which led to law enforcement identifying the motorcycle utilized to leave the area.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632850718422.png" alt="Colt following his arrest in Utah" />
 <figcaption>Colt following his arrest in Utah</figcaption>
 </figure> Following a nationwide manhunt, Colt was arrested while driving the motorcycle in Wayne County, Utah on September 27, 2021.Following the presentation of evidence, Magistrate Judge Julie Cowell found the State presented sufficient evidence to support the charges and bound the defendant over to the higher court on one count of Aggravated Escape from Custody and five counts of Violation of the Kansas Offender Registration Act. Arraignment has been scheduled for February 12, 2024.If convicted of the current felony charges, Colt&nbsp; faces between 17 months and 46 months in the custody of the Kansas Department of Corrections depending on his criminal history.John Freemen Colt, 45, is now back in the custody of the Sexual Predator Treatment Program on the campus of Larned State Hospital, after he served a 21 month term with the Federal Bureau of Prisons on a conviction for Failing to Register under the Federal Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.

Hearing details how suspect escaped from Kan. sex offender program

Patricia Ann Bellah August 25, 1936 ~ December 18, 2023

 Our mom was born in McPherson, Kansas, on August 25, 1936 to Everett and Gladys (Schultz) McClelland. She was raised in Hoxie, Kansas, where her father was an extension agent. While her sister Shirley could usually be found reading a book, Mom was a bit of a tomboy who more often than not was outside playing ball with her brother Lynn.

     Mom attended high school in Washington, Kansas, where she was a cheerleader and played in the band. We only ever knew that she had been Homecoming Queen from our grandfather, who was more likely to brag about how she played on his men’s softball team. Even as a teenager, Mom was always a friend to the friendless and reached out to those in need. 

     Mom went to Kansas State University where she was a member of Clovia Academic Sorority and majored in psychology. She was deeply bothered by the segregation of the 1950’s but also a little naive about racism. When we lived in Nashville in the early ’60’s, she smuggled her colored clothes into the Whites Only laundromat.

     It was at K-State that Mom met our dad, Glenn Bellah, and they were married on May 26, 1957. Our dad once said that marrying Mom was the best thing he had ever done, but it may have been the second best because he was also an awesome dad. They settled in Lindsborg, Kansas, where Dad taught in the biology department at Bethany College, and Mom was an active member of Bethany Dames and served as a dorm mother. 

     Lindsborg became their forever home where they raised four children: Karil, Robi, Rick and John. Mom and Dad always encouraged us to participate in any activities available, and they attended numerous ball games (even if we were just coaching them), music concerts, and speech and drama events. Friends always felt welcome at our house, and they didn’t need to be related to us to be considered family. 

     Mom and Dad joined Trinity United Methodist Church where Mom was involved in lay ministry of every kind. I can’t remember a youth activity I attended at Trinity that my mom wasn’t a part of. One of her favorite projects was the community World Day of Prayer. Mom invested her time in people. She spent a large part of each week visiting residents in Lindsborg and Marquette nursing homes. She enjoyed delivering Meals on Wheels not only because the people needed a meal but because they needed a cheerful visit.

     Mom and Dad enjoyed everyday life together as much as they enjoyed pursuing new adventures through traveling. The only drawback for Mom was that their trips usually required her to pass a botany quiz, so Dad could be sure that she was really listening to him. 

     Mom rejoiced as our family expanded with marriage, grandchildren and great-grands. 

     Karil Bellah married Dale Sader. Their children are Rachel Bellah and Derek Hickey; Scott Sader and sons Winston and Truman; Lisa and Travis Allen and their children Henry, Conrad and Hazel. Eric Sader and Ben Ale-Ebrahim and son Gabe. 

     Robi and Tom Alstrom’s children are Kali and Phil Witek and son Bowen; Seth Alstrom; Breta Alstrom and David Hunter. 

     Ann (Desmo) Baca joined our family through her marriage to Rick. Mom’s world was rocked by tragedy in Rick’s death in a boating accident. Her pain was long and deep but mitigated through forgiveness and the continued relationship with Ann’s family: husband Chris and children Kalin, Kolten and Kilah.

     John and Carrie Bellah have two children: Trapper Bellah; Katie Bellah and fiance’ Michael Ryan. It was such a joy to celebrate Mom and Dad’s 50th anniversary with a family trip to Oregon. 

     Mom’s legacy lies in the family she leaves behind but also in the many lives she touched through her kindness and service: a legacy of love. However, more than anything, our mom loved God, the people He created, and the world He created. She spent time every day in prayer and in her Bible, but she also expressed her love for God with her feet by going to those in need, with her hands by doing whatever work was needed, and with her ears by always being ready to listen.

 “Well done, you good and faithful servant. . . .”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703175260148.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Patricia Ann Bellah August 25, 1936 ~ December 18, 2023 Our mom was born in McPherson, Kansas, on August 25, 1936 to Everett and Gladys (Schultz) McClelland. She was raised in Hoxie, Kansas, where her father was an extension agent. While her sister Shirley could usually be found reading a book, Mom was a bit of a tomboy who more often than not was outside playing ball with her brother Lynn. Mom attended high school in Washington, Kansas, where she was a cheerleader and played in the band. We only ever knew that she had been Homecoming Queen from our grandfather, who was more likely to brag about how she played on his men’s softball team. Even as a teenager, Mom was always a friend to the friendless and reached out to those in need. Mom went to Kansas State University where she was a member of Clovia Academic Sorority and majored in psychology. She was deeply bothered by the segregation of the 1950’s but also a little naive about racism. When we lived in Nashville in the early ’60’s, she smuggled her colored clothes into the Whites Only laundromat. It was at K-State that Mom met our dad, Glenn Bellah, and they were married on May 26, 1957. Our dad once said that marrying Mom was the best thing he had ever done, but it may have been the second best because he was also an awesome dad. They settled in Lindsborg, Kansas, where Dad taught in the biology department at Bethany College, and Mom was an active member of Bethany Dames and served as a dorm mother. Lindsborg became their forever home where they raised four children: Karil, Robi, Rick and John. Mom and Dad always encouraged us to participate in any activities available, and they attended numerous ball games (even if we were just coaching them), music concerts, and speech and drama events. Friends always felt welcome at our house, and they didn’t need to be related to us to be considered family. Mom and Dad joined Trinity United Methodist Church where Mom was involved in lay ministry of every kind. I can’t remember a youth activity I attended at Trinity that my mom wasn’t a part of. One of her favorite projects was the community World Day of Prayer. Mom invested her time in people. She spent a large part of each week visiting residents in Lindsborg and Marquette nursing homes. She enjoyed delivering Meals on Wheels not only because the people needed a meal but because they needed a cheerful visit. Mom and Dad enjoyed everyday life together as much as they enjoyed pursuing new adventures through traveling. The only drawback for Mom was that their trips usually required her to pass a botany quiz, so Dad could be sure that she was really listening to him. Mom rejoiced as our family expanded with marriage, grandchildren and great-grands. Karil Bellah married Dale Sader. Their children are Rachel Bellah and Derek Hickey; Scott Sader and sons Winston and Truman; Lisa and Travis Allen and their children Henry, Conrad and Hazel. Eric Sader and Ben Ale-Ebrahim and son Gabe. Robi and Tom Alstrom’s children are Kali and Phil Witek and son Bowen; Seth Alstrom; Breta Alstrom and David Hunter. Ann (Desmo) Baca joined our family through her marriage to Rick. Mom’s world was rocked by tragedy in Rick’s death in a boating accident. Her pain was long and deep but mitigated through forgiveness and the continued relationship with Ann’s family: husband Chris and children Kalin, Kolten and Kilah. John and Carrie Bellah have two children: Trapper Bellah; Katie Bellah and fiance’ Michael Ryan. It was such a joy to celebrate Mom and Dad’s 50th anniversary with a family trip to Oregon. Mom’s legacy lies in the family she leaves behind but also in the many lives she touched through her kindness and service: a legacy of love. However, more than anything, our mom loved God, the people He created, and the world He created. She spent time every day in prayer and in her Bible, but she also expressed her love for God with her feet by going to those in need, with her hands by doing whatever work was needed, and with her ears by always being ready to listen. “Well done, you good and faithful servant. . . .”

Patricia A. Bellah

Following is recent booking activity for the Saline County Jail, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County Jail

NAME:&nbsp;Barkley,Adam Robert REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;

Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs; Misdemeanor

NAME:&nbsp;Gosha,Deshawn Eugene REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;

Agg Domestic Battery: impede breathing/choke

Criminal threat; Cause terror, evacuation or disruption

Domestic battery: Knowing/reckless bodily harm

NAME:&nbsp;Jamison,Bradley Neal REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;

Theft of prop/services;Value $1,500 to $25,000

Flee or attempt to elude; operate stolen vehicle

NAME:&nbsp;Loeffler,Ryan Seth REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Probation Violation

NAME:&nbsp;Smith,Cody John REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Agg Domestic Battery: impede breathing/choke

NAME:&nbsp;Stanley Townsend,Elizabeth Grace REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Disorderly conduct; Fighting words or noisy conduct to cause resentment

Following is recent booking activity for the Saline County Jail, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County JailAll persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703167946644.png" alt="Barkley,Adam Robert" />
 <figcaption>Barkley,Adam Robert</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Barkley,Adam Robert REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs; MisdemeanorTransporting an open container<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703168031547.jpeg" alt="Gosha,Deshawn Eugene" />
 <figcaption>Gosha,Deshawn Eugene</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Gosha,Deshawn Eugene REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Agg assault; w/ deadly weaponAgg Domestic Battery: impede breathing/chokeAggravated robberyCriminal threat; Cause terror, evacuation or disruptionDomestic battery: Knowing/reckless bodily harm<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703168050656.png" alt="Jamison,Bradley Neal" />
 <figcaption>Jamison,Bradley Neal</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Jamison,Bradley Neal REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Criminal Damage to Property; MisdemeanorTheft of prop/services;Value $1,500 to $25,000Flee or attempt to elude; operate stolen vehicleImproper stop/turn signalTheft of prop/services;Value $1,500 to $25,000Fail to yield at stop or yield sign<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703168074973.png" alt="Loeffler,Ryan Seth" />
 <figcaption>Loeffler,Ryan Seth</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Loeffler,Ryan Seth REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703168096660.jpeg" alt="Smith,Cody John" />
 <figcaption>Smith,Cody John</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Smith,Cody John REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Agg Domestic Battery: impede breathing/choke<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703168114811.jpeg" alt="Stanley Townsend,Elizabeth Grace" />
 <figcaption>Stanley Townsend,Elizabeth Grace</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Stanley Townsend,Elizabeth Grace REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Disorderly conduct; Fighting words or noisy conduct to cause resentment

Saline County Jail Activity, Dec. 21

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

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

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

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

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

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

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