INDIANAPOLIS — Austin Ryan Lauless, 31, of Colorado, has been sentenced to 84 years in federal prison, followed by a lifetime of supervised release. In September 2025, Lauless pleaded guilty to 13 counts of sexual exploitation of a child, five counts of sex trafficking of a minor, two counts of advertising child sexual abuse material, and possession of child sexual abuse material, according to the United State's Attorney.

As of Dec. 17, 84 victims have been identified from nearly every state in the United States and at least five foreign countries. Investigators believe additional victims may still be unidentified. If you or someone you know has been a victim of Lauless, also known online as Cason Fredrickson or APOPHIS, contact your local FBI field office, call 1-800-CALL-FBI, or report it online at tips.fbi.gov.

According to court documents, between late 2019 and May 19, 2023, Lauless used social media applications such as Instagram, Snapchat, Discord, Yubo, Purp, and others to coerce, exploit, and threaten at least 84 minor victims into producing thousands of sexually explicit images and videos. The victims ranged in age from 13 to 17 at the time of the offenses.

Using these social media platforms, Lauless misrepresented his identity, posing as “Cason Fredrickson,” a teenager from New York or other cities. In reality, Lauless was in his late 20s, unemployed, and living in hotels and motels in Texas and Colorado. To conceal his identity, he accessed the public Instagram page of Individual A and, without their knowledge or consent, saved images and videos to impersonate Individual A while posing as “Cason Fredrickson.”

Lauless’ criminal methods included misrepresenting his age, identity, background, and likeness to groom minors and create a false sense of safety in online communications. He also used voice modulators and third-party image and video applications to edit content, making it appear as though it was recorded live through social media platforms such as Snapchat.

He feigned romantic interest in victims, told them they were attractive, and pretended to be in online relationships. He purchased items for many victims through Amazon — including fishnet stockings, sexual devices, and customized t-shirts — which he instructed them to wear while producing sexually explicit material. These items were shipped either directly to victims or to designated Amazon lockers for pickup.

To prolong his exploitation and avoid detection, Lauless threatened victims with dissemination of their images and videos if they failed to comply with his demands or sought help from parents or law enforcement. At least one victim reported to Lauless that she was contemplating suicide.

Lauless also sex trafficked at least five minor victims by forcing them to engage in oral, vaginal, and anal intercourse with adult males, producing numerous videos of these commercial sex acts. Some victims were forced to endure sadomasochistic abuse at his direction.

Once he obtained images and videos, Lauless advertised and sold the sexually explicit material on platforms such as Discord, Instagram, Telegram, and MEGA. He engaged in at least 141 transactions, receiving payment through Venmo, PayPal, Bitcoin, and CashApp. He admitted that his collection of child sexual abuse material included thousands of images and videos depicting prepubescent children engaged in sexually explicit conduct, as well as children subjected to bestiality and sadomasochistic abuse.

“The sheer scale of this investigation and prosecution underscores the relentless commitment of federal law enforcement to dismantle networks of exploitation that prey on our children,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney John Childress &nbsp;for the Southern District of Indiana. “Austin Lauless orchestrated a campaign of abuse that spanned nearly every state and multiple countries, leaving behind profound harm. While no punishment can erase the trauma these young survivors endured, today’s sentence sends a clear message: we will pursue predators across every platform, every jurisdiction, and every border until justice is served.”

“This case represents one of the most egregious forms of exploitation the FBI investigates,” said Special Agent in Charge Timothy J. O’Malley of FBI Indianapolis Field Office. “This was not an isolated crime - it was a nationwide and international campaign of exploitation that victimized at least 84 people, including children, and involved the trafficking of human beings. The FBI is committed to identifying offenders who use technology to abuse, manipulate, and control others, and to ensuring they are held fully accountable. Today’s sentence delivers justice for the victims and reinforces that these crimes will not go unanswered.”

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tiffany Preston and Carolyn Haney for the Southern District of Indiana prosecuted this case with invaluable assistance from Victim Witness Coordinators Stephanie Lloyd and Johnna Preidt.

The FBI conducted the investigation, with additional support from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) and the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Sarah Evans Barker for the Southern District of Indiana.

Additionally, 13 U.S. Attorney’s Offices provided cooperation during the investigation. Without their assistance, bringing Lauless to justice and legally resolving the harm he imposed on the victims would have been delayed. They include: Southern District of Iowa, Eastern District of Missouri, Northern District of Florida, Northern District of Texas, Western District of Kentucky, Southern District of Ohio, Northern District of New York, District of South Carolina, Southern District of Texas, District of Colorado, Central District of California, District of Arizona, and Eastern District of Tennessee.

This case was brought as part of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.justice.gov%2Fusao-sdin%2Fproject-safe-childhood%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019b3255de7f-81fd8676-bf36-42a7-83e8-c9dd44707b6f-000000/WGKNo-oy2wVyroINc20x1rCDx4ka1avklk2VRvhddBw=436">Project Safe Childhood</a>, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state,&nbsp;and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.

INDIANAPOLIS — Austin Ryan Lauless, 31, of Colorado, has been sentenced to 84 years in federal prison, followed by a lifetime of supervised release. In September 2025, Lauless pleaded guilty to 13 counts of sexual exploitation of a child, five counts of sex trafficking of a minor, two counts of advertising child sexual abuse material, and possession of child sexual abuse material, according to the United State's Attorney.As of Dec. 17, 84 victims have been identified from nearly every state in the United States and at least five foreign countries. Investigators believe additional victims may still be unidentified. If you or someone you know has been a victim of Lauless, also known online as Cason Fredrickson or APOPHIS, contact your local FBI field office, call 1-800-CALL-FBI, or report it online at tips.fbi.gov.According to court documents, between late 2019 and May 19, 2023, Lauless used social media applications such as Instagram, Snapchat, Discord, Yubo, Purp, and others to coerce, exploit, and threaten at least 84 minor victims into producing thousands of sexually explicit images and videos. The victims ranged in age from 13 to 17 at the time of the offenses.Using these social media platforms, Lauless misrepresented his identity, posing as “Cason Fredrickson,” a teenager from New York or other cities. In reality, Lauless was in his late 20s, unemployed, and living in hotels and motels in Texas and Colorado. To conceal his identity, he accessed the public Instagram page of Individual A and, without their knowledge or consent, saved images and videos to impersonate Individual A while posing as “Cason Fredrickson.”Lauless’ criminal methods included misrepresenting his age, identity, background, and likeness to groom minors and create a false sense of safety in online communications. He also used voice modulators and third-party image and video applications to edit content, making it appear as though it was recorded live through social media platforms such as Snapchat.He feigned romantic interest in victims, told them they were attractive, and pretended to be in online relationships. He purchased items for many victims through Amazon — including fishnet stockings, sexual devices, and customized t-shirts — which he instructed them to wear while producing sexually explicit material. These items were shipped either directly to victims or to designated Amazon lockers for pickup.To prolong his exploitation and avoid detection, Lauless threatened victims with dissemination of their images and videos if they failed to comply with his demands or sought help from parents or law enforcement. At least one victim reported to Lauless that she was contemplating suicide.Lauless also sex trafficked at least five minor victims by forcing them to engage in oral, vaginal, and anal intercourse with adult males, producing numerous videos of these commercial sex acts. Some victims were forced to endure sadomasochistic abuse at his direction.Once he obtained images and videos, Lauless advertised and sold the sexually explicit material on platforms such as Discord, Instagram, Telegram, and MEGA. He engaged in at least 141 transactions, receiving payment through Venmo, PayPal, Bitcoin, and CashApp. He admitted that his collection of child sexual abuse material included thousands of images and videos depicting prepubescent children engaged in sexually explicit conduct, as well as children subjected to bestiality and sadomasochistic abuse.“The sheer scale of this investigation and prosecution underscores the relentless commitment of federal law enforcement to dismantle networks of exploitation that prey on our children,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney John Childress &nbsp;for the Southern District of Indiana. “Austin Lauless orchestrated a campaign of abuse that spanned nearly every state and multiple countries, leaving behind profound harm. While no punishment can erase the trauma these young survivors endured, today’s sentence sends a clear message: we will pursue predators across every platform, every jurisdiction, and every border until justice is served.”“This case represents one of the most egregious forms of exploitation the FBI investigates,” said Special Agent in Charge Timothy J. O’Malley of FBI Indianapolis Field Office. “This was not an isolated crime - it was a nationwide and international campaign of exploitation that victimized at least 84 people, including children, and involved the trafficking of human beings. The FBI is committed to identifying offenders who use technology to abuse, manipulate, and control others, and to ensuring they are held fully accountable. Today’s sentence delivers justice for the victims and reinforces that these crimes will not go unanswered.”Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tiffany Preston and Carolyn Haney for the Southern District of Indiana prosecuted this case with invaluable assistance from Victim Witness Coordinators Stephanie Lloyd and Johnna Preidt.The FBI conducted the investigation, with additional support from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) and the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Sarah Evans Barker for the Southern District of Indiana.Additionally, 13 U.S. Attorney’s Offices provided cooperation during the investigation. Without their assistance, bringing Lauless to justice and legally resolving the harm he imposed on the victims would have been delayed. They include: Southern District of Iowa, Eastern District of Missouri, Northern District of Florida, Northern District of Texas, Western District of Kentucky, Southern District of Ohio, Northern District of New York, District of South Carolina, Southern District of Texas, District of Colorado, Central District of California, District of Arizona, and Eastern District of Tennessee.This case was brought as part of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.justice.gov%2Fusao-sdin%2Fproject-safe-childhood%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019b3255de7f-81fd8676-bf36-42a7-83e8-c9dd44707b6f-000000/WGKNo-oy2wVyroINc20x1rCDx4ka1avklk2VRvhddBw=436">Project Safe Childhood</a>, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state,&nbsp;and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.

Predator coerced 84 minors to send him explicit videos, sold them online

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Trump has been clear: the blockade of sanctioned oil tankers departing from, or bound for, Venezuela will remain in full force until Maduro’s criminal enterprise returns every stolen American asset. The <a href="https://twitter.com/DeptofWar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DeptofWar</a>, with our partners at <a href="https://twitter.com/USCG?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USCG</a>, will unflinchingly… <a href="https://t.co/2NuUTYon05">https://t.co/2NuUTYon05</a>&mdash; Pete Hegseth (@PeteHegseth) <a href="https://twitter.com/PeteHegseth/status/2002504193924342003?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥US forces stop a second merchant vessel off the coast of Venezuela

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – The former administrator, maintenance contractor, and company owner of a Monett, Mo., skilled nursing facility were indicted by a federal grand jury today for their roles in a conspiracy to impede the EPA, a related state agency, and OHSA, and violate the Clean Air Act regarding the removal of asbestos-containing materials.

Juan Carlos Aguilar Gomez, 45, a citizen of Honduras, residing in Lawrence, N.Y., who was previously charged by criminal complaint on Aug. 1, 2025, with one count of violating the Clean Air Act, was charged in the indictment with one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States and violate the Clean Air Act, six counts of violating the Clean Air Act, and one count of making a false statement to a federal department or agency.

Rebecca Massey, 46, of Granby, Mo., was charged in the indictment with one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States and violate the Clean Air Act, six counts of violating the Clean Air Act, and one count of making a false statement to a federal department or agency.

Goldner Capital Management, LLC (GCM), a limited liability company located in the state of New York, was charged in the indictment with one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States and violate the Clean Air Act, and six counts of violating the Clean Air Act.

“The Department of Justice, working in partnership with the EPA, will seek to hold accountable those who violate environmental laws, as evidenced by the charges returned today,” said R. Matthew Price, United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri.

“Conspiring to violate our nation’s environmental laws to prevent exposure to the lethal dangers of asbestos is a betrayal of trust that puts the most defenseless members of our society at risk. By neglecting proper asbestos inspections and precautions, the defendants have not only violated laws but endangered the health of over 150 residents and staff,” said Cate Holston, Assistant Special Agent in Charge for EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division in Missouri.

According to today’s indictment, in Dec. 2018, Gomez’s company was contracted to do maintenance and renovation work at nursing homes within GCM’s investment portfolio, including a long-term care facility in Monett, Mo. The services in their signed agreement included planning and overseeing all construction, alteration, maintenance, and repair projects at the facilities.

The facility provided senior and other assisted-living care to at least 67 residents and was staffed by approximately 80 employees between 2018 and 2021 and was owned and operated as part of an investment portfolio owned by GCM, which funded all capital improvements to facilities owned by the parent company.

As early as July 2020 GCM agents and employees, including Massey, began plans to renovate the facility, including plans to remove the existing linoleum flooring and replace it with new flooring. This flooring contained at least 6-12% chrysotile asbestos, was in poor condition and crumbled easily, making the tile a regulated asbestos-containing material (RACM) under EPA guidelines. The removal of RACM requires special handling and disposal precautions and procedures.

GCM, Massey, and Gomez were advised during the bidding process by other construction contractors and maintenance employees that the floor needed to be tested for the presence of asbestos and that an asbestos certified contractor needed to remove any flooring containing asbestos.

Despite receiving at least one bid from a reputable contracting company, which advised that the floors likely contained asbestos, no testing or asbestos abatement was conducted at the facility. Instead, GCM agents and employees engaged Gomez to conduct the proposed renovations. Neither Gomez, nor any of his employees were qualified asbestos abatement contractors, workers, or supervisors.

Renovations began around Oct. 2020 and continued through Jan. 2021. During renovations, Gomez and his employees used an electrical/mechanical floor stripper, other scrapers, chippers, and other abrading or grinding machinery to remove the tile flooring. This process generated visible emissions throughout the facility’s hallways, dining areas, and residents’ rooms. Additionally, Gomez and his employees posted no signs regarding potential asbestos exposure, erected no containment, used no water to mitigate visible emissions, had no decontamination units constructed, did not use negative air machines, and disposed of RACM waste in an unlined, unsealed dumpster that was sent to a landfill not authorized to accept RACM.

Massey, knowing that no asbestos analysis/inspection had occurred and that one was needed, permitted the work to continue even though as the Administrator she was empowered, and obligated, under law to shut down any operations that posed a health or safety hazard to the facility’s residents.

On Jan. 20, 2021, officials with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) inspected the facility and obtained a bulk floor sample from the hallway. MDNR conveyed to Massey that they were concerned that the materials contained RACM and that, if they did, the owners of the facility would need to evacuate the residents. Gomez told MDNR inspectors that he had no knowledge of the presence of asbestos or permitting requirements prior to their inspection, both of which were false statements.

The indictment alleges that on April 30, 2021, Massey falsely told OSHA inspectors that she was unaware of the renovation project involving the flooring prior to Gomez and his workers beginning work in Dec. 2020. She also claimed that she knew nothing about asbestos until MDNR arrived at the facility.&nbsp; Both were false statements.

The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Casey Clark, who was significantly assisted by former Environmental Crimes Section Senior Litigation Counsel Todd W. Gleason. It was investigated by the EPA – Criminal Investigations Division and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766268405538.png" alt="google image" />
 <figcaption>google image</figcaption>
 </figure>SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – The former administrator, maintenance contractor, and company owner of a Monett, Mo., skilled nursing facility were indicted by a federal grand jury today for their roles in a conspiracy to impede the EPA, a related state agency, and OHSA, and violate the Clean Air Act regarding the removal of asbestos-containing materials.Juan Carlos Aguilar Gomez, 45, a citizen of Honduras, residing in Lawrence, N.Y., who was previously charged by criminal complaint on Aug. 1, 2025, with one count of violating the Clean Air Act, was charged in the indictment with one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States and violate the Clean Air Act, six counts of violating the Clean Air Act, and one count of making a false statement to a federal department or agency.Rebecca Massey, 46, of Granby, Mo., was charged in the indictment with one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States and violate the Clean Air Act, six counts of violating the Clean Air Act, and one count of making a false statement to a federal department or agency.Goldner Capital Management, LLC (GCM), a limited liability company located in the state of New York, was charged in the indictment with one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States and violate the Clean Air Act, and six counts of violating the Clean Air Act.“The Department of Justice, working in partnership with the EPA, will seek to hold accountable those who violate environmental laws, as evidenced by the charges returned today,” said R. Matthew Price, United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri.“Conspiring to violate our nation’s environmental laws to prevent exposure to the lethal dangers of asbestos is a betrayal of trust that puts the most defenseless members of our society at risk. By neglecting proper asbestos inspections and precautions, the defendants have not only violated laws but endangered the health of over 150 residents and staff,” said Cate Holston, Assistant Special Agent in Charge for EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division in Missouri.According to today’s indictment, in Dec. 2018, Gomez’s company was contracted to do maintenance and renovation work at nursing homes within GCM’s investment portfolio, including a long-term care facility in Monett, Mo. The services in their signed agreement included planning and overseeing all construction, alteration, maintenance, and repair projects at the facilities.The facility provided senior and other assisted-living care to at least 67 residents and was staffed by approximately 80 employees between 2018 and 2021 and was owned and operated as part of an investment portfolio owned by GCM, which funded all capital improvements to facilities owned by the parent company.As early as July 2020 GCM agents and employees, including Massey, began plans to renovate the facility, including plans to remove the existing linoleum flooring and replace it with new flooring. This flooring contained at least 6-12% chrysotile asbestos, was in poor condition and crumbled easily, making the tile a regulated asbestos-containing material (RACM) under EPA guidelines. The removal of RACM requires special handling and disposal precautions and procedures.GCM, Massey, and Gomez were advised during the bidding process by other construction contractors and maintenance employees that the floor needed to be tested for the presence of asbestos and that an asbestos certified contractor needed to remove any flooring containing asbestos.Despite receiving at least one bid from a reputable contracting company, which advised that the floors likely contained asbestos, no testing or asbestos abatement was conducted at the facility. Instead, GCM agents and employees engaged Gomez to conduct the proposed renovations. Neither Gomez, nor any of his employees were qualified asbestos abatement contractors, workers, or supervisors.Renovations began around Oct. 2020 and continued through Jan. 2021. During renovations, Gomez and his employees used an electrical/mechanical floor stripper, other scrapers, chippers, and other abrading or grinding machinery to remove the tile flooring. This process generated visible emissions throughout the facility’s hallways, dining areas, and residents’ rooms. Additionally, Gomez and his employees posted no signs regarding potential asbestos exposure, erected no containment, used no water to mitigate visible emissions, had no decontamination units constructed, did not use negative air machines, and disposed of RACM waste in an unlined, unsealed dumpster that was sent to a landfill not authorized to accept RACM.Massey, knowing that no asbestos analysis/inspection had occurred and that one was needed, permitted the work to continue even though as the Administrator she was empowered, and obligated, under law to shut down any operations that posed a health or safety hazard to the facility’s residents.On Jan. 20, 2021, officials with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) inspected the facility and obtained a bulk floor sample from the hallway. MDNR conveyed to Massey that they were concerned that the materials contained RACM and that, if they did, the owners of the facility would need to evacuate the residents. Gomez told MDNR inspectors that he had no knowledge of the presence of asbestos or permitting requirements prior to their inspection, both of which were false statements.The indictment alleges that on April 30, 2021, Massey falsely told OSHA inspectors that she was unaware of the renovation project involving the flooring prior to Gomez and his workers beginning work in Dec. 2020. She also claimed that she knew nothing about asbestos until MDNR arrived at the facility.&nbsp; Both were false statements.The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Casey Clark, who was significantly assisted by former Environmental Crimes Section Senior Litigation Counsel Todd W. Gleason. It was investigated by the EPA – Criminal Investigations Division and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

3 indicted for conspiracy to violate asbestos-related laws at Mo. long-term care facility

KANSAS CITY—A person injured in an accident that occurred just before 10 a.m. Wednesday in Kansas City has died.

According to KCPD Officer Alayna Gonzalez, a blue Dodge Dart was&nbsp; westbound on Interstate 70 and swerved into the impact attenuator to northbound US 71 Highway. 

EMS transported the driver and sole occupant to a local hospital with life threatening injuries.&nbsp; On Friday, Officer Gonzalez reported the driver died.&nbsp; Police did not release the name of the driver or additional details.

KANSAS CITY—A person injured in an accident that occurred just before 10 a.m. Wednesday in Kansas City has died.According to KCPD Officer Alayna Gonzalez, a blue Dodge Dart was&nbsp; westbound on Interstate 70 and swerved into the impact attenuator to northbound US 71 Highway. EMS transported the driver and sole occupant to a local hospital with life threatening injuries.&nbsp; On Friday, Officer Gonzalez reported the driver died.&nbsp; Police did not release the name of the driver or additional details.

Driver dies after car strikes impact attenuator on I-70

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a homicide in Topeka. Just after 11:45p.m. Friday, police responded to a report of a possible shooting in the 900 block of SW Lincoln Avenue in Topeka, according to Police Lt. John Trimble.

First responders located 2 victims who were deceased. Police believe all people involved in this incident are accounted for. Police did not report the names of the victims or possible suspect details.

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a homicide in Topeka. Just after 11:45p.m. Friday, police responded to a report of a possible shooting in the 900 block of SW Lincoln Avenue in Topeka, according to Police Lt. John Trimble.First responders located 2 victims who were deceased. Police believe all people involved in this incident are accounted for. Police did not report the names of the victims or possible suspect details.

Homicide: 2 found dead in Kansas shooting

RUSSELL COUNTY —Multiple fire departments and first responder agencies responded to two large grass fires in southeast Russell County on Thursday, according to Russell County Emergency Management.

At noon, the first fire was located eight miles southwest of Bunker Hill in the area of 189th Street and Lincoln Road. Russell County Rural Fire District Five responded, but almost immediately requested more Russell County rural fire departments respond due to high winds with gusts in the 60 to 70 mph range. The cause of the first fire was electrical power lines.

The second fire to the north started approximately a mile south of US Highway 40 on 193rd Street south of Bunker Hill. It was caused by a responding fire truck losing a tire and crashing into the ditch.

All told, approximately 2,000 acres of grassland were burned in both fires. There were no injuries due to the fires and a handful of structures and residences were threatened, but none were damaged.

Russell County EMS responded to a crash involving a Russell County Sheriff’s Deputy vehicle and a Dorrance Fire Department fire truck. No one was transported to the hospital and the Kansas Highway Patrol investigated both vehicle crashes, the other being the fire truck that lost a tire.

Early in the process, a verbal disaster declaration for Russell County was requested and approved by the Russell County Commission, thereby allowing the request of mutual aid resources from the state.

All fire departments from Russell County were involved in the response, as well as fire departments and additional agencies from multiple surrounding counties.

Both fires were declared under control at around 5 PM Thursday evening with some firefighters remaining on scene to put out hot spots and monitor the area.

Russell County Emergency Management, the Russell County Sheriff’s Office and Russell County Rural Fire District Five thank all local and state agencies that responded to assist, as well as private citizens and businesses.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766089811922.png" alt="Image from KHP video" />
 <figcaption>Image from KHP video</figcaption>
 </figure>RUSSELL COUNTY —Multiple fire departments and first responder agencies responded to two large grass fires in southeast Russell County on Thursday, according to Russell County Emergency Management.At noon, the first fire was located eight miles southwest of Bunker Hill in the area of 189th Street and Lincoln Road. Russell County Rural Fire District Five responded, but almost immediately requested more Russell County rural fire departments respond due to high winds with gusts in the 60 to 70 mph range. The cause of the first fire was electrical power lines.The second fire to the north started approximately a mile south of US Highway 40 on 193rd Street south of Bunker Hill. It was caused by a responding fire truck losing a tire and crashing into the ditch.All told, approximately 2,000 acres of grassland were burned in both fires. There were no injuries due to the fires and a handful of structures and residences were threatened, but none were damaged.Russell County EMS responded to a crash involving a Russell County Sheriff’s Deputy vehicle and a Dorrance Fire Department fire truck. No one was transported to the hospital and the Kansas Highway Patrol investigated both vehicle crashes, the other being the fire truck that lost a tire.Early in the process, a verbal disaster declaration for Russell County was requested and approved by the Russell County Commission, thereby allowing the request of mutual aid resources from the state.All fire departments from Russell County were involved in the response, as well as fire departments and additional agencies from multiple surrounding counties.Both fires were declared under control at around 5 PM Thursday evening with some firefighters remaining on scene to put out hot spots and monitor the area.Russell County Emergency Management, the Russell County Sheriff’s Office and Russell County Rural Fire District Five thank all local and state agencies that responded to assist, as well as private citizens and businesses.

2,000 acres of Kansas grassland burned in windy wildfire

BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">MORGAN CHILSON</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — President Donald Trump took the first step Thursday to reclassify marijuana, but the move won’t affect Kansans unless the state changes its laws, a law enforcement professional said.&nbsp;

Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/12/increasing-medical-marijuana-and-cannabidiol-research/" target="_blank">signed an executive order</a>&nbsp;to drop marijuana from a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act to a Schedule III drug.&nbsp;

In 2023, the Department of Health and Human Services recommended the change, indicating marijuana has medical use.

“Schedule I drugs are defined as drugs with no currently accepted medical use, a high potential for abuse, and a lack of accepted safety for use of the drug under medical supervision,” the order said. “Schedule III drugs are classified as having a potential for abuse less than the drugs or other substances in Schedules I and II, a currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States, and a potential for moderate or low physical dependence or high psychological dependence in the event of drug abuse.”

The change doesn’t take immediate effect on the federal level, but it will not affect Kansans unless laws are changed, said Ed Klumpp, a retired Topeka police chief and a lobbyist for the Kansas Peace Officers Association.

“Under state law, it’s still under Schedule I,” he said. “If this happens and it sticks, then there would need to be some kind of bill run to move it from Schedule I to Schedule III on the state schedule, and then it’s still a controlled substance.”

If marijuana moves to become a Schedule III drug, it could be prescribed through pharmacies for medicinal use, Klumpp said.&nbsp;

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation urged Kansans to remember that marijuana is still illegal and that rescheduling it is “not the same as legalization.”&nbsp;

“Marijuana products sold today are highly potent and pose a direct threat to public health,” the news release said. “Rescheduling will allow qualified scientists to conduct reliable research on the long-term impact on the human brain of the use of high-concentration THC products. We believe this will conclusively prove the connection between marijuana use and mental health disorders, especially in children and teens.”

U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kansas, was one of 24 Republicans&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/26382687-12172025-budd-letter-on-marijuana-rescheduling/" target="_blank">who signed a letter</a>&nbsp;asking Trump not to change marijuana’s classification.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Rescheduling marijuana to a Schedule III drug will undermine your strong efforts to Make America Great Again and to usher in America’s next economic Golden Age,” the letter said. “The only winners from rescheduling will be bad actors such as Communist China, while Americans will be left paying the bill.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766178085125.png" alt=" Ed Klumpp, a Kansas lobbyist representing the Kansas Peace Officers Association, said federal regulatory decisions regarding marijuana won't change the drug's status in Kansas unless the state's law changes. (Kansas Reflector screen capture of Legislature's YouTube channel)" />
 <figcaption> Ed Klumpp, a Kansas lobbyist representing the Kansas Peace Officers Association, said federal regulatory decisions regarding marijuana won't change the drug's status in Kansas unless the state's law changes. (Kansas Reflector screen capture of Legislature's YouTube channel)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">MORGAN CHILSON</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — President Donald Trump took the first step Thursday to reclassify marijuana, but the move won’t affect Kansans unless the state changes its laws, a law enforcement professional said.&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/12/increasing-medical-marijuana-and-cannabidiol-research/" target="_blank">signed an executive order</a>&nbsp;to drop marijuana from a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act to a Schedule III drug.&nbsp;In 2023, the Department of Health and Human Services recommended the change, indicating marijuana has medical use.“Schedule I drugs are defined as drugs with no currently accepted medical use, a high potential for abuse, and a lack of accepted safety for use of the drug under medical supervision,” the order said. “Schedule III drugs are classified as having a potential for abuse less than the drugs or other substances in Schedules I and II, a currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States, and a potential for moderate or low physical dependence or high psychological dependence in the event of drug abuse.”The change doesn’t take immediate effect on the federal level, but it will not affect Kansans unless laws are changed, said Ed Klumpp, a retired Topeka police chief and a lobbyist for the Kansas Peace Officers Association.“Under state law, it’s still under Schedule I,” he said. “If this happens and it sticks, then there would need to be some kind of bill run to move it from Schedule I to Schedule III on the state schedule, and then it’s still a controlled substance.”If marijuana moves to become a Schedule III drug, it could be prescribed through pharmacies for medicinal use, Klumpp said.&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation urged Kansans to remember that marijuana is still illegal and that rescheduling it is “not the same as legalization.”&nbsp;“Marijuana products sold today are highly potent and pose a direct threat to public health,” the news release said. “Rescheduling will allow qualified scientists to conduct reliable research on the long-term impact on the human brain of the use of high-concentration THC products. We believe this will conclusively prove the connection between marijuana use and mental health disorders, especially in children and teens.”U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kansas, was one of 24 Republicans&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/26382687-12172025-budd-letter-on-marijuana-rescheduling/" target="_blank">who signed a letter</a>&nbsp;asking Trump not to change marijuana’s classification.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Rescheduling marijuana to a Schedule III drug will undermine your strong efforts to Make America Great Again and to usher in America’s next economic Golden Age,” the letter said. “The only winners from rescheduling will be bad actors such as Communist China, while Americans will be left paying the bill.”

Kansas marijuana laws remain unchanged, despite Trump promoting looser regulations

RILEY COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 6p.m. Friday in Riley&nbsp; County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1997 Chevy Lumina driven by Stephen Lynn&nbsp;Williams, 63, Green, Kansas, was southbound&nbsp;on U.S. 77 at U.S. 24 and struck pedestrian identified as Thomas William&nbsp;McHugh, 77, Riley, in the southbound lane. McHugh landed in the northbound lane. A northbound 2017 Chevy Silverado driven by Jude Lewis Benson, 20, Clay Center, also struck McHugh.

EMS transported McHugh, Williams and a passenger in the car Brenda Lynn Williams, 71, Green, Kansas, to Via Christi in Manhattan. McHugh was pronounced deceased. Benson was not injured. The occupants of both vehicles were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

RILEY COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 6p.m. Friday in Riley&nbsp; County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1997 Chevy Lumina driven by Stephen Lynn&nbsp;Williams, 63, Green, Kansas, was southbound&nbsp;on U.S. 77 at U.S. 24 and struck pedestrian identified as Thomas William&nbsp;McHugh, 77, Riley, in the southbound lane. McHugh landed in the northbound lane. A northbound 2017 Chevy Silverado driven by Jude Lewis Benson, 20, Clay Center, also struck McHugh.EMS transported McHugh, Williams and a passenger in the car Brenda Lynn Williams, 71, Green, Kansas, to Via Christi in Manhattan. McHugh was pronounced deceased. Benson was not injured. The occupants of both vehicles were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Kansas man dies after struck by a car and a pickup

JACKSON COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating two suspect on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.

Just before 4:30a.m. December 15, a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a Ford F-150 that was northbound on U.S. Highway 75 near 318th&nbsp;Road for an alleged traffic infraction, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

The driver of the vehicle, David John Remmers, 40, of Salina was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of a hallucinogenic drug, driving while suspended, tampering with an interlock device, possession of drug paraphernalia, no insurance and for an outstanding warrant for failure to appear out of Washington County.

The passenger of the vehicle, Jennifer Rose Martin, 40, of Marysville, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on a requested charges possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766096396799.png" alt="Remmers photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Remmers photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating two suspect on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.Just before 4:30a.m. December 15, a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a Ford F-150 that was northbound on U.S. Highway 75 near 318th&nbsp;Road for an alleged traffic infraction, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.The driver of the vehicle, David John Remmers, 40, of Salina was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of a hallucinogenic drug, driving while suspended, tampering with an interlock device, possession of drug paraphernalia, no insurance and for an outstanding warrant for failure to appear out of Washington County.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766096371199.png" alt="Martin photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Martin photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>The passenger of the vehicle, Jennifer Rose Martin, 40, of Marysville, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on a requested charges possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Sheriff: Kansas man jailed for skipping court, drug possession

Late Friday afternoon,&nbsp; the U.S. Department of Justice Department&nbsp; began releasing a portion of the long awaited files on&nbsp;Jeffrey Epstein.

<a href="https://www.justice.gov/epstein">Click here to see</a>&nbsp;the files and do a search

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766179629581.png" alt="mage released Thursday by the House Oversight Committee" />
 <figcaption>mage released Thursday by the House Oversight Committee</figcaption>
 </figure>Late Friday afternoon,&nbsp; the U.S. Department of Justice Department&nbsp; began releasing a portion of the long awaited files on&nbsp;Jeffrey Epstein.<a href="https://www.justice.gov/epstein">Click here to see</a>&nbsp;the files and do a search<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766179219604.png" alt="Image from the DOJ web site on Friday Dec. 19, 3p.m. CST" />
 <figcaption>Image from the DOJ web site on Friday Dec. 19, 3p.m. CST</figcaption>
 </figure>

See the files: Some long-awaited Epstein files finally released

WASHINGTON— Secretary of War Pete Hegseth used social media to announce retaliatory strikes in Syria.

He wrote "Earlier today, U.S. forces commenced OPERATION HAWKEYE STRIKE in Syria to eliminate ISIS fighters, infrastructure, and weapons sites in direct response to the attack on U.S. forces that occurred on December 13th in Palmyra, Syria."

"This is not the beginning of a war — it is a declaration of vengeance. The United States of America, under President Trump’s leadership, will never hesitate and never relent to defend our people.

As we said directly following the savage attack, if you target Americans — anywhere in the world — you will spend the rest of your brief, anxious life knowing the United States will hunt you, find you, and ruthlessly kill you."

"Today, we hunted and we killed our enemies. Lots of them. And we will continue."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766004117046.png" alt="On Wednesday, President Trump witnesses the dignified transfer of the three American Patriots killed in Syria." />
 <figcaption>On Wednesday, President Trump witnesses the dignified transfer of the three American Patriots killed in Syria.</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON— Secretary of War Pete Hegseth used social media to announce retaliatory strikes in Syria.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">CENTCOM forces launched fighter jets, attack helicopters and other assets to conduct the large-scale strike. <a href="https://t.co/3szSo2u5rm">pic.twitter.com/3szSo2u5rm</a>&mdash; U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) <a href="https://twitter.com/CENTCOM/status/2002154219089113254?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>He wrote "Earlier today, U.S. forces commenced OPERATION HAWKEYE STRIKE in Syria to eliminate ISIS fighters, infrastructure, and weapons sites in direct response to the attack on U.S. forces that occurred on December 13th in Palmyra, Syria.""This is not the beginning of a war — it is a declaration of vengeance. The United States of America, under President Trump’s leadership, will never hesitate and never relent to defend our people.As we said directly following the savage attack, if you target Americans — anywhere in the world — you will spend the rest of your brief, anxious life knowing the United States will hunt you, find you, and ruthlessly kill you.""Today, we hunted and we killed our enemies. Lots of them. And we will continue."

US launches retaliatory strikes in Syria targeting ISIS

CASS COUNTY —The  Missouri State Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal officer shooting involving a member of the Belton Police Department.

Just after 10a.m. Friday, police in the Kansas City suburb of Belton responded to a the 16,000 Block of Rebecca Lane to check the welfare of a subject possibly experiencing&nbsp; mental health issues, according to a media release from the&nbsp; MSHP. Officers made contact with the subject at the residence. The subject refused any assistance from officers.

Just before 12:30p.m. Officers were called to the same address a second time on a re port the original subject&nbsp; threatening a member of the residence with a&nbsp; knife. Officer arrived and contacted the reporting party in the front of the home. During the conversation, the subject exited the residence and was armed with a knife. The subject ran toward the officers and they retreated.&nbsp; The subject continued to chase an officer. At 12:35p.m., the officer fired shots striking the subject. EMS transported the subject to a local hospital where they were pronounced deceased.&nbsp;

No officers were injured during the incident. Investigators recovered a knife at the scene.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol is in charge of the investigation. Their final report on the incident will forwarded to the Cass County Attorney for review.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766181673996.png" alt="Photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>CASS COUNTY —The Missouri State Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal officer shooting involving a member of the Belton Police Department.Just after 10a.m. Friday, police in the Kansas City suburb of Belton responded to a the 16,000 Block of Rebecca Lane to check the welfare of a subject possibly experiencing&nbsp; mental health issues, according to a media release from the&nbsp; MSHP. Officers made contact with the subject at the residence. The subject refused any assistance from officers.Just before 12:30p.m. Officers were called to the same address a second time on a re port the original subject&nbsp; threatening a member of the residence with a&nbsp; knife. Officer arrived and contacted the reporting party in the front of the home. During the conversation, the subject exited the residence and was armed with a knife. The subject ran toward the officers and they retreated.&nbsp; The subject continued to chase an officer. At 12:35p.m., the officer fired shots striking the subject. EMS transported the subject to a local hospital where they were pronounced deceased.&nbsp;No officers were injured during the incident. Investigators recovered a knife at the scene.The Missouri State Highway Patrol is in charge of the investigation. Their final report on the incident will forwarded to the Cass County Attorney for review.

Patrol: Suspect shot, killed after chasing officers with a knife

BUTLER COUNTY—A Kansas man died in an accident just after 2p.m. Thursday in Butler County.

According to Undersheriff Daimon Cundiff, a 1998 Harley Davidson driven by 53-year-old Salvador J. Tovar Jr., of Augusta was&nbsp;northbound in the 4000 Block of SW Haverhill Road in El Dorado. The driver lost control of the motorcycle as it entered the curve just north of SW 50th Street and was ejected. 

Tovar was pronounced dead at the scene.&nbsp; He was not wearing a helmet, according to Cundiff.&nbsp; High winds are believed to be a contributing factor in the crash.

BUTLER COUNTY—A Kansas man died in an accident just after 2p.m. Thursday in Butler County.According to Undersheriff Daimon Cundiff, a 1998 Harley Davidson driven by 53-year-old Salvador J. Tovar Jr., of Augusta was&nbsp;northbound in the 4000 Block of SW Haverhill Road in El Dorado. The driver lost control of the motorcycle as it entered the curve just north of SW 50th Street and was ejected. Tovar was pronounced dead at the scene.&nbsp; He was not wearing a helmet, according to Cundiff.&nbsp; High winds are believed to be a contributing factor in the crash.

Sheriff: High winds contributed to fatal Kan. motorcycle crash

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ariana-figueroa/">Ariana Figueroa</a>

WASHINGTON — The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, a prestigious cultural hub in the nation’s capital, will be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt announced Thursday.

<a href="https://www.kennedy-center.org/about-us/leadership/trustees/">Click here to see the</a> Center's Board of Trustees

The renaming comes after President Donald Trump named himself chair of the board in February in a major shake-up. He later fired the Kennedy Center president as well as board members appointed by President Joe Biden before appointing his own members.

Leavitt said the board unanimously approved the name change. However, a federal statute appears to prohibit the renaming of portions of the center, which is considered a living memorial to Kennedy.

“After December 2, 1983, no additional memorials or plaques in the nature of memorials shall be designated or installed in the public areas of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts,”&nbsp;<a href="https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?path=/prelim@title20/chapter3/subchapter5&amp;edition=prelim" target="_blank">according to the U.S. code.&nbsp;</a>

Congress likely would need to change the law for the center to be renamed officially.&nbsp;

The Kennedy Center was renamed in 1964 to honor President John F. Kennedy, who was assassinated.

Leavitt said the renaming was “because of the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building. Not only from the standpoint of its reconstruction, but also financially, and its reputation.”

“Congratulations to President Donald J. Trump, and likewise, congratulations to President Kennedy, because this will be a truly great team long into the future!,” she wrote.

Since the president’s takeover of the center, major artists and performers have canceled performances or boycotted performing. The artist Issa Rae, and the musical “Hamilton” will no longer perform at the center and dozens of cast members of “Les Misérables” refused to perform for Trump officials earlier this year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766113484318.png" alt="The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, which the White House said will be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center. (Photo courtesy of Kennedy Center) " />
 <figcaption>The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, which the White House said will be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center. (Photo courtesy of Kennedy Center) </figcaption>
 </figure>By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ariana-figueroa/">Ariana Figueroa</a>WASHINGTON — The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, a prestigious cultural hub in the nation’s capital, will be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt announced Thursday.<a href="https://www.kennedy-center.org/about-us/leadership/trustees/">Click here to see the</a> Center's Board of TrusteesThe renaming comes after President Donald Trump named himself chair of the board in February in a major shake-up. He later fired the Kennedy Center president as well as board members appointed by President Joe Biden before appointing his own members.Leavitt said the board unanimously approved the name change. However, a federal statute appears to prohibit the renaming of portions of the center, which is considered a living memorial to Kennedy.“After December 2, 1983, no additional memorials or plaques in the nature of memorials shall be designated or installed in the public areas of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts,”&nbsp;<a href="https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?path=/prelim@title20/chapter3/subchapter5&amp;edition=prelim" target="_blank">according to the U.S. code.&nbsp;</a>Congress likely would need to change the law for the center to be renamed officially.&nbsp;The Kennedy Center was renamed in 1964 to honor President John F. Kennedy, who was assassinated.Leavitt said the renaming was “because of the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building. Not only from the standpoint of its reconstruction, but also financially, and its reputation.”“Congratulations to President Donald J. Trump, and likewise, congratulations to President Kennedy, because this will be a truly great team long into the future!,” she wrote.Since the president’s takeover of the center, major artists and performers have canceled performances or boycotted performing. The artist Issa Rae, and the musical “Hamilton” will no longer perform at the center and dozens of cast members of “Les Misérables” refused to perform for Trump officials earlier this year.

Controversy: Kennedy Center to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center

RILEY COUNTY – Law enforcement investigating a homicide that occurred&nbsp; in the 800 Block of Colorado Street in Manhattan on December 6, have made additional arrests.

On Thursday, police arrested Danielle Sanchez, 47, of Manhattan, in the 1000 block of Pottawatomie Court on requested charges of interference with a law enforcement officer; conceal/alter/destroy evidence in a felony case and attempted obstruction of apprehension of prosecution; committed or charged with a felony, according to al media release from the Riley County Police Department.

On December 10, police arrested Joleann Killham, 24, and Eli Smith, 22, both of Manhattan on requested charges of interference with a&nbsp;law enforcement officer; conceal/alter/destroy evidence in a felony case and obstructing apprehension of prosecution; committed or charged with a felony. 

Sanchez and Killham and Smith met the requirement of a $10,000 bond and are no longer in custody. Smith remains confined, according to the RCPD.

These arrests are the results of continued investigative efforts following the apprehension of Erick Sanchez-Chavez, 29, of Manhattan, who was arrested on Dec. 8 and charged with second-degree murder, aggravated assault and criminal threat in the death of 36-year-old Mark Rickenbaker. Sanchez-Chavez is being held on a $1,000,000 bond.

RILEY COUNTY – Law enforcement investigating a homicide that occurred&nbsp; in the 800 Block of Colorado Street in Manhattan on December 6, have made additional arrests.On Thursday, police arrested Danielle Sanchez, 47, of Manhattan, in the 1000 block of Pottawatomie Court on requested charges of interference with a law enforcement officer; conceal/alter/destroy evidence in a felony case and attempted obstruction of apprehension of prosecution; committed or charged with a felony, according to al media release from the Riley County Police Department.On December 10, police arrested Joleann Killham, 24, and Eli Smith, 22, both of Manhattan on requested charges of interference with a&nbsp;law enforcement officer; conceal/alter/destroy evidence in a felony case and obstructing apprehension of prosecution; committed or charged with a felony. Sanchez and Killham and Smith met the requirement of a $10,000 bond and are no longer in custody. Smith remains confined, according to the RCPD.These arrests are the results of continued investigative efforts following the apprehension of Erick Sanchez-Chavez, 29, of Manhattan, who was arrested on Dec. 8 and charged with second-degree murder, aggravated assault and criminal threat in the death of 36-year-old Mark Rickenbaker. Sanchez-Chavez is being held on a $1,000,000 bond.

3 more accused in connection with homicide in Manhattan

On Thursday at the direction of Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted lethal kinetic strikes on two vessels operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations in international waters, according to a statement from the U.S. Southern Command.

 Intelligence confirmed that the vessels were transiting along known narco-trafficking routes in the Eastern Pacific and were engaged in narco-trafficking operations. A total of five male narco-terrorists were killed during these actions - three in the first vessel and two in the second vessel. No U.S. military forces were harmed.

On Thursday at the direction of Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted lethal kinetic strikes on two vessels operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations in international waters, according to a statement from the U.S. Southern Command.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">On Dec. 18, at the direction of <a href="https://twitter.com/SecWar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecWar</a> Pete Hegseth, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted lethal kinetic strikes on two vessels operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations in international waters. Intelligence confirmed that the vessels were transiting along known… <a href="https://t.co/CcCyOgYRto">pic.twitter.com/CcCyOgYRto</a>&mdash; U.S. Southern Command (@Southcom) <a href="https://twitter.com/Southcom/status/2001840669313135099?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div> Intelligence confirmed that the vessels were transiting along known narco-trafficking routes in the Eastern Pacific and were engaged in narco-trafficking operations. A total of five male narco-terrorists were killed during these actions - three in the first vessel and two in the second vessel. No U.S. military forces were harmed.

🎥 US strikes 2 more drug boats killing 5 'narco-terrorists'

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://rhodeislandcurrent.com/author/nancy-lavin/">Nancy Lavin</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://rhodeislandcurrent.com/author/alexcastro/">Alexander Castro</a> <a href="https://rhodeislandcurrent.com/">Rhode Island Current</a>

With those three words from Ted Docks, FBI special agent in charge, the six-day manhunt for the person believed to be responsible for a mass shooting at Brown University ended. The suspect and former Brown graduate student, Claudio Manuel Neves Valente, was found dead in a storage unit in Salem, New Hampshire, shortly before 9 p.m. Thursday, Docks confirmed at a press conference in Providence.

Neves Valente, 48, is also the suspect in Monday’s fatal shooting of Massachusetts Institute of Technology physics professor Nuno F.G. Loureiro in Brookline, Massachusetts, Rhode Island public officials confirmed Thursday. U.S. Attorney for the District of Massachusetts Leah B. Foley said Valente was found with a satchel when investigators arrived to execute a search warrant at a press conference in Boston&nbsp;<a href="https://www.justice.gov/usao-nh/pr/us-attorneys-offices-fbi-and-atf-announce-death-brown-university-and-mit-professor" target="_blank">Thursday night</a>.

It’s a marked turnaround from one day earlier, when clues appeared, at least publicly, scarce about the man captured on grainy video footage and still images around the Ivy League campus before and after the Saturday afternoon shooting. Frustration, criticism, and fear mounted as the university and the capital city desperately searched for answers and investigators searched for justice.

But just as Attorney General Peter Neronha promised, the seemingly unending case “cracked wide open,” swiftly Thursday thanks largely to public assistance that helped connect the man captured on area security camera footage to a rental car agency in Massachusetts, and ultimately, 85 miles north to the storage unit where he took his own life Thursday night.

A&nbsp;<a href="https://rhodeislandcurrent.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/affidavit.pdf">state arrest warrant</a>&nbsp;issued by Rhode Island state court earlier Thursday charges Neves Valente with two counts of murder and 23 felony counts of assault and firearms offenses.&nbsp;

Evidence is still being processed, but Neronha added, “There won’t be a prosecution now, of course.”

“I don’t think we have any idea why now, or why, why Brown, why these students, why this classroom, that that is really unknown to us, and it may become clear, I hope that it does, but it hasn’t as of right now,” Neronha said.

What is known is that Neves Valente was a Brown University student from the fall of 2000 to the spring of 2001, admitted to a master’s graduate program in physics. He took a leave of absence in April 2001, before formally withdrawing in July 2003. During his time at the university, most physics classes were held in the Barus and Holley engineering building where the shooting took place, though the university course schedule for that time period is not available, Christina Paxson, university president said.

He was also described as a Portuguese national, whose last known address was in Miami. He is believed to have traveled by plane to Providence in October, moving throughout the region over the intervening months. Officials said Loureiro, 47, and Valente attended the same academic program in Portugal between 1995 and 2000.

“This was a highly dangerous individual capable of extreme violence,” said Tom Greco, special agent in charge for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms’ Boston division.

The thread that unraveled the mystery of who and where he was: a second person, identified in the affidavit as John, who was captured on property security camera footage in the East Side residential neighborhood at the same time as Neves Valente on the day of the shooting. Officials on Wednesday released photos of John, asking for tips or for him to come forward for questioning.&nbsp;

John previously posted on a popular reddit forum relaying a piece of what he observed, according to the affidavit of a Providence police detective.

“The police need to look into a grey Nissan with Florida plates, possibly a rental,” John, then still anonymous, wrote on the subreddit r/Providence on Dec. 15. “That was the car he was driving. It was parked in front of the little shack behind the Rhode Island Historical Society on the Cooke St side. I know because he used his key fob to open the car, approached it and then something prompted him to back away.”

John spoke briefly with Neves Valente in the bathroom of the engineering building, following him out and asking him about his presence in the university building. He came forward to Providence police within an hour of his photo being released publicly Wednesday.

“He was as outstanding a witness as I’ve seen, and he deserves a lot of credit,” Neronha said, adding that he would “vote” for the witness to receive the $50,000 reward previously offered by the FBI.

John’s interview and written tips helped investigators identify and trace the vehicle to the Boston car rental where he rented the car, in his own name, Neronha said.&nbsp;

The New Hampshire storage unit was also in his name, and evidence recovered in the car and the unit, including two firearms, confirmed he was responsible for the shooting, Neronha said.

“We are 100% confident that this is our target ,and this case is closed from a perspective of pursuing people involved,” Neronha said.

Perez later professed pride for the city, whose residents, students and public safety officials succeeded in the complex and winding investigation.

“In this nation, when horrific incidents happen, law enforcement steps up,” Col. Oscar Perez, Providence police chief, said during the late evening press conference.&nbsp;

The sense of accomplishment and relief was also met with continued grief for the two students killed and nine wounded, along with the wider community. Six of the injured students remained at Rhode Island Hospital, where they were listed in stable condition Thursday.

“We hope this outcome tonight brings an increased sense of safety for Brown and our surrounding area,” Paxson, university president, said. “This has been a period of great fear and anxiety for many people and now, perhaps some form of relief. Truly, this week has been devastating for our community in a number of ways.”

Including public doxxing, misinformation and rampant conspiracies that filled the void of facts on social media over the last six days.&nbsp;

“The endless barrage of misinformation, disinformation, rumors, leaks and click bait were not helpful in this investigation, distractions and unfounded criticisms do not support this work,” said Col Darnell Weaver, superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police. “They complicate it and threaten to undermine the justice we seek for the victims and the grieving families.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766142171994.png" alt="Providence Police Chief Col. Oscar Perez is shown at the right of the podium before the start of the press conference announcing the identify of the Brown University mass shooting suspect who was found dead in New Hampshire on Thursday, Dec. 18, 2025. (Photo by Alexander Castro/Rhode Island Current)" />
 <figcaption>Providence Police Chief Col. Oscar Perez is shown at the right of the podium before the start of the press conference announcing the identify of the Brown University mass shooting suspect who was found dead in New Hampshire on Thursday, Dec. 18, 2025. (Photo by Alexander Castro/Rhode Island Current)</figcaption>
 </figure>By:&nbsp;<a href="https://rhodeislandcurrent.com/author/nancy-lavin/">Nancy Lavin</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://rhodeislandcurrent.com/author/alexcastro/">Alexander Castro</a> <a href="https://rhodeislandcurrent.com/">Rhode Island Current</a>“We got him.”With those three words from Ted Docks, FBI special agent in charge, the six-day manhunt for the person believed to be responsible for a mass shooting at Brown University ended. The suspect and former Brown graduate student, Claudio Manuel Neves Valente, was found dead in a storage unit in Salem, New Hampshire, shortly before 9 p.m. Thursday, Docks confirmed at a press conference in Providence.Neves Valente, 48, is also the suspect in Monday’s fatal shooting of Massachusetts Institute of Technology physics professor Nuno F.G. Loureiro in Brookline, Massachusetts, Rhode Island public officials confirmed Thursday. U.S. Attorney for the District of Massachusetts Leah B. Foley said Valente was found with a satchel when investigators arrived to execute a search warrant at a press conference in Boston&nbsp;<a href="https://www.justice.gov/usao-nh/pr/us-attorneys-offices-fbi-and-atf-announce-death-brown-university-and-mit-professor" target="_blank">Thursday night</a>.It’s a marked turnaround from one day earlier, when clues appeared, at least publicly, scarce about the man captured on grainy video footage and still images around the Ivy League campus before and after the Saturday afternoon shooting. Frustration, criticism, and fear mounted as the university and the capital city desperately searched for answers and investigators searched for justice.But just as Attorney General Peter Neronha promised, the seemingly unending case “cracked wide open,” swiftly Thursday thanks largely to public assistance that helped connect the man captured on area security camera footage to a rental car agency in Massachusetts, and ultimately, 85 miles north to the storage unit where he took his own life Thursday night.A&nbsp;<a href="https://rhodeislandcurrent.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/affidavit.pdf">state arrest warrant</a>&nbsp;issued by Rhode Island state court earlier Thursday charges Neves Valente with two counts of murder and 23 felony counts of assault and firearms offenses.&nbsp;Evidence is still being processed, but Neronha added, “There won’t be a prosecution now, of course.”A motive remains elusive.“I don’t think we have any idea why now, or why, why Brown, why these students, why this classroom, that that is really unknown to us, and it may become clear, I hope that it does, but it hasn’t as of right now,” Neronha said.What is known is that Neves Valente was a Brown University student from the fall of 2000 to the spring of 2001, admitted to a master’s graduate program in physics. He took a leave of absence in April 2001, before formally withdrawing in July 2003. During his time at the university, most physics classes were held in the Barus and Holley engineering building where the shooting took place, though the university course schedule for that time period is not available, Christina Paxson, university president said.He was also described as a Portuguese national, whose last known address was in Miami. He is believed to have traveled by plane to Providence in October, moving throughout the region over the intervening months. Officials said Loureiro, 47, and Valente attended the same academic program in Portugal between 1995 and 2000.“This was a highly dangerous individual capable of extreme violence,” said Tom Greco, special agent in charge for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms’ Boston division.The thread that unraveled the mystery of who and where he was: a second person, identified in the affidavit as John, who was captured on property security camera footage in the East Side residential neighborhood at the same time as Neves Valente on the day of the shooting. Officials on Wednesday released photos of John, asking for tips or for him to come forward for questioning.&nbsp;John previously posted on a popular reddit forum relaying a piece of what he observed, according to the affidavit of a Providence police detective.“The police need to look into a grey Nissan with Florida plates, possibly a rental,” John, then still anonymous, wrote on the subreddit r/Providence on Dec. 15. “That was the car he was driving. It was parked in front of the little shack behind the Rhode Island Historical Society on the Cooke St side. I know because he used his key fob to open the car, approached it and then something prompted him to back away.”John spoke briefly with Neves Valente in the bathroom of the engineering building, following him out and asking him about his presence in the university building. He came forward to Providence police within an hour of his photo being released publicly Wednesday.“He was as outstanding a witness as I’ve seen, and he deserves a lot of credit,” Neronha said, adding that he would “vote” for the witness to receive the $50,000 reward previously offered by the FBI.John’s interview and written tips helped investigators identify and trace the vehicle to the Boston car rental where he rented the car, in his own name, Neronha said.&nbsp;The New Hampshire storage unit was also in his name, and evidence recovered in the car and the unit, including two firearms, confirmed he was responsible for the shooting, Neronha said.“We are 100% confident that this is our target ,and this case is closed from a perspective of pursuing people involved,” Neronha said.Perez later professed pride for the city, whose residents, students and public safety officials succeeded in the complex and winding investigation.“In this nation, when horrific incidents happen, law enforcement steps up,” Col. Oscar Perez, Providence police chief, said during the late evening press conference.&nbsp;The sense of accomplishment and relief was also met with continued grief for the two students killed and nine wounded, along with the wider community. Six of the injured students remained at Rhode Island Hospital, where they were listed in stable condition Thursday.“We hope this outcome tonight brings an increased sense of safety for Brown and our surrounding area,” Paxson, university president, said. “This has been a period of great fear and anxiety for many people and now, perhaps some form of relief. Truly, this week has been devastating for our community in a number of ways.”Including public doxxing, misinformation and rampant conspiracies that filled the void of facts on social media over the last six days.&nbsp;“The endless barrage of misinformation, disinformation, rumors, leaks and click bait were not helpful in this investigation, distractions and unfounded criticisms do not support this work,” said Col Darnell Weaver, superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police. “They complicate it and threaten to undermine the justice we seek for the victims and the grieving families.”

Suspected Brown mass shooter found dead in N.H. storage facility

HOWELL COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 3:30a.m. Thursday in Howell County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2022 Ford F250 driven by a 40-year-old Marionville man was southbound in the northbound lane of U.S. 63 four miles north of West Plains. The pickup struck a 1991 Ford F250 driven by a 48-year-old West Plains man head-on.

The West Plains man was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Drago Funeral Home. EMS transported the other driver to Ozark Health. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

HOWELL COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 3:30a.m. Thursday in Howell County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2022 Ford F250 driven by a 40-year-old Marionville man was southbound in the northbound lane of U.S. 63 four miles north of West Plains. The pickup struck a 1991 Ford F250 driven by a 48-year-old West Plains man head-on.The West Plains man was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Drago Funeral Home. EMS transported the other driver to Ozark Health. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man dead after wrong-way, head-on crash

Due to recent delays in heating propane, on Dec. 17 Governor Laura Kelly signed a proclamation of State of Disaster Emergency for all 105 Kansas counties, according to a media release from Kelly's office.

“As every Kansan knows, our winters can become dangerously cold at times,” said Governor Kelly. “We want to make sure every person has access to a steady supply of heating fuel throughout the winter months, particularly those in rural areas who depend on propane to warm their homes.”

The proclamation states “Areas within Kansas and surrounding state are experiencing a delay in delivery of propane for residential heating, causing long lines at fuel terminals thereby causing a disruption in supply delivery and a need for drivers to increase the number of hours of service to deliver product.”

In response, Governor Kelly ordered the adjutant general, director of the Kansas Division of Emergency Management, to activate the disaster response and recovery portions of the Kansas Response Plan. The governor also temporarily suspended any regulatory statutes that would hinder or delay timely response to heating fuel deliveries.

The proclamation covers dates through Dec. 31, 2025.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573129144676.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Due to recent delays in heating propane, on Dec. 17 Governor Laura Kelly signed a proclamation of State of Disaster Emergency for all 105 Kansas counties, according to a media release from Kelly's office.“As every Kansan knows, our winters can become dangerously cold at times,” said Governor Kelly. “We want to make sure every person has access to a steady supply of heating fuel throughout the winter months, particularly those in rural areas who depend on propane to warm their homes.”The proclamation states “Areas within Kansas and surrounding state are experiencing a delay in delivery of propane for residential heating, causing long lines at fuel terminals thereby causing a disruption in supply delivery and a need for drivers to increase the number of hours of service to deliver product.”In response, Governor Kelly ordered the adjutant general, director of the Kansas Division of Emergency Management, to activate the disaster response and recovery portions of the Kansas Response Plan. The governor also temporarily suspended any regulatory statutes that would hinder or delay timely response to heating fuel deliveries.The proclamation covers dates through Dec. 31, 2025.

Kan. Governor declares state of emergency over propane delays

Legislators will consider public funding package in hopes of luring the NFL team to Kansas. The Royals will not be discussed Monday, leaving the MLB team’s future uncertain.

By:<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/peggylowe/">Peggy Lowe</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/sherman-smith/">Sherman Smith</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/stevekraske/">Steve Kraske</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/01/03/kansas-state-garden-city-cc-striving-to-shrink-bachelors-degree-educational-desert/?emci=8e6f56cf-3bca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;emdi=a9416bb1-82ca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflecto</a>r

Kansas legislative leaders will meet Monday to take one of the final steps toward luring the Kansas City Chiefs across the state line, floating bonds worth hundreds of millions so the team can build a domed stadium and an entertainment district.

With a year-end deadline looming, the Legislative Coordinating Council will consider approving Sales Tax and Revenue Bond agreements with the Chiefs. Monday is the council’s last scheduled meeting of the year.

With the bonds’ approval, the Kansas City Chiefs could move closer to uprooting six decades of NFL history in Missouri and relocate to Kansas. The deal is said to call for placing the new stadium near the Legends, a regional shopping mall and commercial area in the Village West development in Kansas City, Kansas.

The council will not consider any deals with the Kansas City Royals on Monday.

Legislative and state leaders refused to offer specifics about the meeting and would say only that the Chiefs will be on the agenda. Senate President Ty Masterson, a Republican running for governor, said he has worked diligently to explore the change to bring the Chiefs to Kansas without raising taxes.

“He remains fully committed to these efforts and will continue working tirelessly up to and through the upcoming Legislative Coordinating Council meeting to facilitate this exciting opportunity for Kansas,” said Megan Stookey, Masterson’s spokesperson.

Senate Minority Leader Dinah Sykes, a Lenexa Democrat, said she was told the council, which is composed of legislative leadership from both parties, would be talking about the Chiefs on Monday — but not the Royals.

“We will be talking about the Chiefs,” Sykes said. “It sounds like there is some proposal that we will be looking at.”

The Kansas Department of Commerce, which handles such deals, posted on Facebook that the state is in active discussions with the Chiefs about “building a new stadium and other facilities in Kansas.”

“No final agreement has been reached, but this would be a massive economic win for Kansas and benefit Kansans for generations to come,” the statement said. “We are aggressively pursuing this opportunity.”

The Kansas City Chiefs didn’t return an email seeking comment.

In an interview Tuesday, Gov. Laura Kelly declined to say whether the Chiefs or Royals were coming to Kansas.

“You really think I’m going to answer that question?” Kelly said.

Missouri Gov, Mike Kehoe said his team remains in frequent communication with the Royals and the Chiefs and wants to keep the teams in Missouri.

“He believes Missouri is the best home for both teams and continues working with the teams to make the right decision to grow and invest in the Show-Me State,” said his communications director, Gabby Picard.

Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas issued a statement Thursday saying the city doesn’t negotiate in public.

“As the city and our Missouri partners continue discussions with our long-term partners at the Chiefs and the Royals, we remain steadfast in working toward an arrangement in the best interest of our community and the greatest success of our teams on and off the field,” Lucas said.

After a ping-pong of public-financing proposals offered by the two states, the Chiefs face a decision on&nbsp;<a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li_2024s/b2023_24/measures/hb2001/" target="_blank">Kansas’ deal</a>, which could&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/07/07/kansas-lawmakers-extend-deadline-for-chiefs-royals-to-accept-stadium-incentives/">cover up to 70% of the project</a>&nbsp;through bonds. Missouri’s plan offered 50%.

Missouri hit a wall in its bid to keep the Chiefs after voters rejected a sales tax extension in April 2024, throwing in jeopardy a plan that would have helped fund a new $2 billion downtown ballpark for the Royals and $800 million in renovations to Arrowhead Stadium. That’s when Kansas lawmakers aggressively stepped in, authorizing STAR bonds to finance 70% of development projects with a minimum investment of a billion dollars.

Kansas Sen. David Haley, a Democrat from Wyandotte County, said Thursday he’s hearing talk that the team is headed to the Legends.

The site of the new stadium could be west of the Kansas Speedway, at the junction of Interstate 435 and Interstate 70. The potential entertainment district surrounding the stadium would be placed near other existing businesses, like Legends Outlets, the Hollywood Casino, and Sporting KC’s soccer stadium.

The Kansas Legislature during a special session last summer created a financial incentive package designed to lure the Chiefs and Royals across state lines. The law allows for STAR bonds to pay for 70% of a development project with a minimum investment of a billion dollars. The bonds would be paid through liquor sales and retail sales tax revenue in the development area, with a window up to 30 years.

Reaching a deal now could allow a stadium to open by 2031, when the team’s leases with Jackson County, Missouri, expire.

The Chiefs began playing in Kansas City in 1963 after owner Lamar Hunt moved the franchise from Dallas. The team first played at Municipal Stadium, at 22nd Street and Brooklyn Avenue, then moved to Arrowhead in 1971. The Truman Sports Complex, on the city’s east side, is also home to the Royals and the teams share parking lots.

The Chiefs sold naming rights in 2021 to the Government Employees Health Association and the official name became&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nfl.com/news/chiefs-home-field-now-geha-field-at-arrowhead-stadium" target="_blank">GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium</a>.

The Chiefs’ negotiations with Kansas intensified last month when the team floated a request for proposals from firms to design a domed stadium, which would be available for use during the Super Bowl and other winter events. The team was said to be&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/sports/2025-11-11/chiefs-kansas-stadium-speedway-rfp" target="_blank">negotiating with NASCAR&nbsp;</a>for land near the Speedway.

Five months earlier, in June, the<a href="https://www.kcur.org/sports/2025-06-27/chiefs-kansas-stadium-extension" target="_blank">&nbsp;Chiefs requested an extension</a>&nbsp;to a deadline for a stadium financing package from the state of Kansas, which was an indication the NFL franchise’s move across the state line was a real possibility.

But that same month, Missouri’s Kehoe called lawmakers into a special session to offer a competing stadium financing deal, hoping for something that could keep both the Chiefs and the Royals on that side of the state line. The Missouri Legislature approved the plan, which authorized bonds covering up to half of the cost of new or renovated stadiums, plus up to $50 million in tax credits for each stadium and more aid from local governments.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766107972886.png" alt="Kansas legislative leaders will meet Monday to consider using STAR bonds to finance a stadium for the Kansas City Chiefs that could be built near the Legends shopping area. (Photo by Grace Hills for Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas legislative leaders will meet Monday to consider using STAR bonds to finance a stadium for the Kansas City Chiefs that could be built near the Legends shopping area. (Photo by Grace Hills for Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Legislators will consider public funding package in hopes of luring the NFL team to Kansas. The Royals will not be discussed Monday, leaving the MLB team’s future uncertain.</h2>By:<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/peggylowe/">Peggy Lowe</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/sherman-smith/">Sherman Smith</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/stevekraske/">Steve Kraske</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/01/03/kansas-state-garden-city-cc-striving-to-shrink-bachelors-degree-educational-desert/?emci=8e6f56cf-3bca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;emdi=a9416bb1-82ca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflecto</a>rKansas legislative leaders will meet Monday to take one of the final steps toward luring the Kansas City Chiefs across the state line, floating bonds worth hundreds of millions so the team can build a domed stadium and an entertainment district.With a year-end deadline looming, the Legislative Coordinating Council will consider approving Sales Tax and Revenue Bond agreements with the Chiefs. Monday is the council’s last scheduled meeting of the year.With the bonds’ approval, the Kansas City Chiefs could move closer to uprooting six decades of NFL history in Missouri and relocate to Kansas. The deal is said to call for placing the new stadium near the Legends, a regional shopping mall and commercial area in the Village West development in Kansas City, Kansas.The council will not consider any deals with the Kansas City Royals on Monday.Legislative and state leaders refused to offer specifics about the meeting and would say only that the Chiefs will be on the agenda. Senate President Ty Masterson, a Republican running for governor, said he has worked diligently to explore the change to bring the Chiefs to Kansas without raising taxes.“He remains fully committed to these efforts and will continue working tirelessly up to and through the upcoming Legislative Coordinating Council meeting to facilitate this exciting opportunity for Kansas,” said Megan Stookey, Masterson’s spokesperson.Senate Minority Leader Dinah Sykes, a Lenexa Democrat, said she was told the council, which is composed of legislative leadership from both parties, would be talking about the Chiefs on Monday — but not the Royals.“We will be talking about the Chiefs,” Sykes said. “It sounds like there is some proposal that we will be looking at.”The Kansas Department of Commerce, which handles such deals, posted on Facebook that the state is in active discussions with the Chiefs about “building a new stadium and other facilities in Kansas.”“No final agreement has been reached, but this would be a massive economic win for Kansas and benefit Kansans for generations to come,” the statement said. “We are aggressively pursuing this opportunity.”The Kansas City Chiefs didn’t return an email seeking comment.In an interview Tuesday, Gov. Laura Kelly declined to say whether the Chiefs or Royals were coming to Kansas.“You really think I’m going to answer that question?” Kelly said.Missouri Gov, Mike Kehoe said his team remains in frequent communication with the Royals and the Chiefs and wants to keep the teams in Missouri.“He believes Missouri is the best home for both teams and continues working with the teams to make the right decision to grow and invest in the Show-Me State,” said his communications director, Gabby Picard.Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas issued a statement Thursday saying the city doesn’t negotiate in public.“As the city and our Missouri partners continue discussions with our long-term partners at the Chiefs and the Royals, we remain steadfast in working toward an arrangement in the best interest of our community and the greatest success of our teams on and off the field,” Lucas said.After a ping-pong of public-financing proposals offered by the two states, the Chiefs face a decision on&nbsp;<a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li_2024s/b2023_24/measures/hb2001/" target="_blank">Kansas’ deal</a>, which could&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/07/07/kansas-lawmakers-extend-deadline-for-chiefs-royals-to-accept-stadium-incentives/">cover up to 70% of the project</a>&nbsp;through bonds. Missouri’s plan offered 50%.Missouri hit a wall in its bid to keep the Chiefs after voters rejected a sales tax extension in April 2024, throwing in jeopardy a plan that would have helped fund a new $2 billion downtown ballpark for the Royals and $800 million in renovations to Arrowhead Stadium. That’s when Kansas lawmakers aggressively stepped in, authorizing STAR bonds to finance 70% of development projects with a minimum investment of a billion dollars.Kansas Sen. David Haley, a Democrat from Wyandotte County, said Thursday he’s hearing talk that the team is headed to the Legends.The site of the new stadium could be west of the Kansas Speedway, at the junction of Interstate 435 and Interstate 70. The potential entertainment district surrounding the stadium would be placed near other existing businesses, like Legends Outlets, the Hollywood Casino, and Sporting KC’s soccer stadium.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766108108718.png" alt="The Kansas City Chiefs could build a stadium on land near the Kansas Speedway in the Village West development of Kansas City, Kansas. (Photo by Grace Hills for Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>The Kansas City Chiefs could build a stadium on land near the Kansas Speedway in the Village West development of Kansas City, Kansas. (Photo by Grace Hills for Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Legislature during a special session last summer created a financial incentive package designed to lure the Chiefs and Royals across state lines. The law allows for STAR bonds to pay for 70% of a development project with a minimum investment of a billion dollars. The bonds would be paid through liquor sales and retail sales tax revenue in the development area, with a window up to 30 years.Reaching a deal now could allow a stadium to open by 2031, when the team’s leases with Jackson County, Missouri, expire.The Chiefs began playing in Kansas City in 1963 after owner Lamar Hunt moved the franchise from Dallas. The team first played at Municipal Stadium, at 22nd Street and Brooklyn Avenue, then moved to Arrowhead in 1971. The Truman Sports Complex, on the city’s east side, is also home to the Royals and the teams share parking lots.The Chiefs sold naming rights in 2021 to the Government Employees Health Association and the official name became&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nfl.com/news/chiefs-home-field-now-geha-field-at-arrowhead-stadium" target="_blank">GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium</a>.The Chiefs’ negotiations with Kansas intensified last month when the team floated a request for proposals from firms to design a domed stadium, which would be available for use during the Super Bowl and other winter events. The team was said to be&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/sports/2025-11-11/chiefs-kansas-stadium-speedway-rfp" target="_blank">negotiating with NASCAR&nbsp;</a>for land near the Speedway.Five months earlier, in June, the<a href="https://www.kcur.org/sports/2025-06-27/chiefs-kansas-stadium-extension" target="_blank">&nbsp;Chiefs requested an extension</a>&nbsp;to a deadline for a stadium financing package from the state of Kansas, which was an indication the NFL franchise’s move across the state line was a real possibility.But that same month, Missouri’s Kehoe called lawmakers into a special session to offer a competing stadium financing deal, hoping for something that could keep both the Chiefs and the Royals on that side of the state line. The Missouri Legislature approved the plan, which authorized bonds covering up to half of the cost of new or renovated stadiums, plus up to $50 million in tax credits for each stadium and more aid from local governments.