LOS ANGELES&nbsp;– A federal grand jury Wednesday returned an indictment against a man from Hays, Kansas and a man from West Los Angeles who allegedly ran a decade-long telemarketing scam primarily targeting elderly victims that fraudulently obtained more than $4.5 million via false promises to help victims sell or rent their timeshare properties.

Michael Alexai Dragunov, 44, whose aliases include “Michael Anthony Farole,” “Michael LeFleur,” “Victor Romano,” and “James Logan,” is charged in the 10-count indictment along with Christopher Michael Lang, 42, of Hays, Kansas, whose aliases include “Scott Graham,” “Don Lewis,” and “Jack Morgan.”

Both defendants are charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and nine counts of wire fraud in connection with telemarketing and email marketing targeting the elderly.

Dragunov was arrested on a federal criminal complaint in this matter on June 28 and was ordered jailed without bond. His arraignment is scheduled for July 18 in United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles. Lang was arrested in Kansas on June 28 and is expected to be arraigned in Los Angeles in the coming weeks.

According to the indictment, from August 2013 to June 2023, Dragunov and Lang purported to represent companies that provided advertising and other services to current or former timeshare owners. The companies included Premier Marketing LLC, CML Marketing Specialists Inc., Condo Rental Associates LLC, and Paramount Media LLC.

Dragunov and Lang allegedly contacted victims, many of whom were elderly, and, to conceal the fraudulent scheme and their true identities, the defendants also used Skype messaging service phone numbers and used aliases instead of their true names.

Victims allegedly were induced to enter into agreements with the defendants’ telemarketing companies – agreements that were formalized in documents that were faxed or sent electronically – by falsely representing that the telemarketing companies would assist the victims with selling or renting their timeshare properties for a “one time” advertising fee.

Despite the recurring fees that each victim paid, often reaching the hundreds of thousands over several years, no victim received the timeshare-related services or proceeds promised, the indictment alleges.

To dupe victims into sending them more money, Dragunov and Lang allegedly told their victims a series of lies, including that the fees being requested would be refunded or reimbursed to the victims upon completion of the sale or rental of the victims’ timeshare, that the victims still owed taxes on the timeshare properties, and if the victims tried to dispute their payments to the telemarketing companies, the victims would automatically lose their disputes and lose all funds paid and any proceeds from a sale or rental of their timeshares.

To create the false impression that the telemarketing companies were legitimate, Dragunov and Lang pretended to be the companies’ customers and engaged in hundreds of phony small transactions with the companies’ payment processing accounts, according to the indictment.

Dragunov and Lang also allegedly concealed material facts from the victims, including the fact that their money was being used to personally enrich themselves.

If convicted of all charges, Dragunov and Lang would face a statutory maximum sentence of 30 years in federal prison for each count.

An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

The FBI and IRS Criminal Investigation are investigating this matter. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department; the Henry County (Ohio) Sheriff’s Department; Hays (Kansas) Police Department; and United States Marshals Service provided substantial assistance.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688408367149.png" alt="Christopher Lang was booked into the Shawnee Co. Jail June 28.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Christopher Lang was booked into the Shawnee Co. Jail June 28.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>LOS ANGELES&nbsp;– A federal grand jury Wednesday returned an indictment against a man from Hays, Kansas and a man from West Los Angeles who allegedly ran a decade-long telemarketing scam primarily targeting elderly victims that fraudulently obtained more than $4.5 million via false promises to help victims sell or rent their timeshare properties.Michael Alexai Dragunov, 44, whose aliases include “Michael Anthony Farole,” “Michael LeFleur,” “Victor Romano,” and “James Logan,” is charged in the 10-count indictment along with Christopher Michael Lang, 42, of Hays, Kansas, whose aliases include “Scott Graham,” “Don Lewis,” and “Jack Morgan.”Both defendants are charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and nine counts of wire fraud in connection with telemarketing and email marketing targeting the elderly.Dragunov was arrested on a federal criminal complaint in this matter on June 28 and was ordered jailed without bond. His arraignment is scheduled for July 18 in United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles. Lang was arrested in Kansas on June 28 and is expected to be arraigned in Los Angeles in the coming weeks.According to the indictment, from August 2013 to June 2023, Dragunov and Lang purported to represent companies that provided advertising and other services to current or former timeshare owners. The companies included Premier Marketing LLC, CML Marketing Specialists Inc., Condo Rental Associates LLC, and Paramount Media LLC.Dragunov and Lang allegedly contacted victims, many of whom were elderly, and, to conceal the fraudulent scheme and their true identities, the defendants also used Skype messaging service phone numbers and used aliases instead of their true names.Victims allegedly were induced to enter into agreements with the defendants’ telemarketing companies – agreements that were formalized in documents that were faxed or sent electronically – by falsely representing that the telemarketing companies would assist the victims with selling or renting their timeshare properties for a “one time” advertising fee.Despite the recurring fees that each victim paid, often reaching the hundreds of thousands over several years, no victim received the timeshare-related services or proceeds promised, the indictment alleges.To dupe victims into sending them more money, Dragunov and Lang allegedly told their victims a series of lies, including that the fees being requested would be refunded or reimbursed to the victims upon completion of the sale or rental of the victims’ timeshare, that the victims still owed taxes on the timeshare properties, and if the victims tried to dispute their payments to the telemarketing companies, the victims would automatically lose their disputes and lose all funds paid and any proceeds from a sale or rental of their timeshares.To create the false impression that the telemarketing companies were legitimate, Dragunov and Lang pretended to be the companies’ customers and engaged in hundreds of phony small transactions with the companies’ payment processing accounts, according to the indictment.Dragunov and Lang also allegedly concealed material facts from the victims, including the fact that their money was being used to personally enrich themselves.If convicted of all charges, Dragunov and Lang would face a statutory maximum sentence of 30 years in federal prison for each count.An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.The FBI and IRS Criminal Investigation are investigating this matter. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department; the Henry County (Ohio) Sheriff’s Department; Hays (Kansas) Police Department; and United States Marshals Service provided substantial assistance.

Kan. man charged with wire fraud in $4.5M timeshare scheme

By Andy Miller <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/02/08/state-approved-use-of-pesticide-coated-seed-corn-for-ethanol-plant-a-decade-ago/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is reducing funding to states for child vaccination programs, according to an agency email obtained by KFF Health News.

The funding cut “is a significant change to your budget,” said the email to immunization managers, dated June 27 and signed by two CDC officials.

The immunization managers who received the message are public health officials who direct state, territorial, and local programs to promote vaccinations against a variety of infectious diseases, such as measles and chickenpox.

The reduction comes from a federal immunization grant — totaling about $680 million in the latest year — that supports vaccination programs for children, according to the Association of Immunization Managers.

“There will be no easy solution for this,” said the CDC email. “We know that this change will require some tough decisions.”

When asked about the change, CDC spokesperson Kristen Nordlund said last week, “The budgetary impact is still being worked out.”

Agency officials linked the reduction to the debt ceiling deal recently struck by the Biden administration and Congress. The cut may result in less complete reporting on vaccinations, the CDC said.

The debt deal rescinded about $27 billion in unspent federal money that had been allocated to fight COVID. It also led the CDC to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://rollcall.com/2023/06/14/cdc-alerts-states-of-cuts-to-sti-workforce-blames-debt-deal/#:~:text=The%20CDC%20told%20states%20on,recently%20passed%20debt%20ceiling%20deal.">remove $400 million in funding</a>&nbsp;to states for workers who fight the spread of sexually transmitted infections, according to an email obtained by CQ Roll Call.

Claire Hannan, executive director of the Association of Immunization Managers, said Wednesday that jurisdictions are reporting that the cut amounts to 10% or more of their previous year’s award.

The targeted cut will affect programs that identify communities vulnerable to disease outbreaks, said Hannan. This information is used to prevent and manage outbreaks, Hannan added.

States and territories, along with a few cities, were expected to learn their federal funding amounts for child immunization last week, Hannan said. However, Jeff Powell, spokesperson for the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, said Friday the state had not received notice of a change in its funding level.

The budget cut comes as the number of children getting vaccinated dropped amid the COVID pandemic. During the 2021-22 school year, approximately&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/72/wr/mm7202a2.htm#:~:text=During%20the%202021%E2%80%9322%20school%20year%2C%20coverage%20with%20MMR%2C,school%20year%2C%20when%20children%20were">93% of kindergartners nationwide received</a>&nbsp;each of the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella), DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, and acellular pertussis), polio, and varicella vaccines. That was down from 94% during the 2020-21 school year and 95% coverage during 2019-20.

Children who are not vaccinated are more likely to get diseases like measles and whooping cough, the CDC points out on its website. Outbreaks of these diseases have occurred recently, especially in communities with low vaccination rates.

“Now is not the time to reduce federal support for routine childhood vaccine administration,” said Mark Del Monte, CEO of the American Academy of Pediatrics. “We need to make sure every child remains fully up to date on their vaccinations as we approach back-to-school season, and that requires sustained investments in the vaccine delivery system.”

Shifting money from one area to another isn’t easy because of rigidity in the CDC’s budget, said Georges Benjamin, executive director of the American Public Health Association.

Local public health agencies depend on federal funding to support their immunization programs, Benjamin said. He worries low-income families are especially vulnerable if local departments face budget cuts.

“This is what happens when you don’t pay attention to public health,” Benjamin said.

This article first appeared in&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kffhealthnews.org/about-us">KFF Health News,</a>&nbsp;a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues, which is one of the core operating programs at KFF, an independent source of health policy research, polling, and journalism.&nbsp;Read the original article&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/cdc-childhood-vaccinations-programs-funding-cut-public-health/view/republish/">here</a>.

By Andy Miller <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/02/08/state-approved-use-of-pesticide-coated-seed-corn-for-ethanol-plant-a-decade-ago/">Nebraska Examiner</a>The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is reducing funding to states for child vaccination programs, according to an agency email obtained by KFF Health News.The funding cut “is a significant change to your budget,” said the email to immunization managers, dated June 27 and signed by two CDC officials.The immunization managers who received the message are public health officials who direct state, territorial, and local programs to promote vaccinations against a variety of infectious diseases, such as measles and chickenpox.The reduction comes from a federal immunization grant — totaling about $680 million in the latest year — that supports vaccination programs for children, according to the Association of Immunization Managers.“There will be no easy solution for this,” said the CDC email. “We know that this change will require some tough decisions.”When asked about the change, CDC spokesperson Kristen Nordlund said last week, “The budgetary impact is still being worked out.”Agency officials linked the reduction to the debt ceiling deal recently struck by the Biden administration and Congress. The cut may result in less complete reporting on vaccinations, the CDC said.The debt deal rescinded about $27 billion in unspent federal money that had been allocated to fight COVID. It also led the CDC to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://rollcall.com/2023/06/14/cdc-alerts-states-of-cuts-to-sti-workforce-blames-debt-deal/#:~:text=The%20CDC%20told%20states%20on,recently%20passed%20debt%20ceiling%20deal.">remove $400 million in funding</a>&nbsp;to states for workers who fight the spread of sexually transmitted infections, according to an email obtained by CQ Roll Call.Claire Hannan, executive director of the Association of Immunization Managers, said Wednesday that jurisdictions are reporting that the cut amounts to 10% or more of their previous year’s award.The targeted cut will affect programs that identify communities vulnerable to disease outbreaks, said Hannan. This information is used to prevent and manage outbreaks, Hannan added.States and territories, along with a few cities, were expected to learn their federal funding amounts for child immunization last week, Hannan said. However, Jeff Powell, spokesperson for the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, said Friday the state had not received notice of a change in its funding level.The budget cut comes as the number of children getting vaccinated dropped amid the COVID pandemic. During the 2021-22 school year, approximately&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/72/wr/mm7202a2.htm#:~:text=During%20the%202021%E2%80%9322%20school%20year%2C%20coverage%20with%20MMR%2C,school%20year%2C%20when%20children%20were">93% of kindergartners nationwide received</a>&nbsp;each of the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella), DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, and acellular pertussis), polio, and varicella vaccines. That was down from 94% during the 2020-21 school year and 95% coverage during 2019-20.Children who are not vaccinated are more likely to get diseases like measles and whooping cough, the CDC points out on its website. Outbreaks of these diseases have occurred recently, especially in communities with low vaccination rates.“Now is not the time to reduce federal support for routine childhood vaccine administration,” said Mark Del Monte, CEO of the American Academy of Pediatrics. “We need to make sure every child remains fully up to date on their vaccinations as we approach back-to-school season, and that requires sustained investments in the vaccine delivery system.”Shifting money from one area to another isn’t easy because of rigidity in the CDC’s budget, said Georges Benjamin, executive director of the American Public Health Association.Local public health agencies depend on federal funding to support their immunization programs, Benjamin said. He worries low-income families are especially vulnerable if local departments face budget cuts.“This is what happens when you don’t pay attention to public health,” Benjamin said.This article first appeared in&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kffhealthnews.org/about-us">KFF Health News,</a>&nbsp;a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues, which is one of the core operating programs at KFF, an independent source of health policy research, polling, and journalism.&nbsp;Read the original article&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/cdc-childhood-vaccinations-programs-funding-cut-public-health/view/republish/">here</a>.

CDC to reduce funding for states’ child vaccination programs

SEDGWICK COUNTY — Two men accused in the July 2, mass shooting at the City Nightz Club in Wichita's Old Town have made their initial appearance in court.

On Tuesday 19-year-old Ameir King-Ingram was charged with aggravated battery, 6 counts of aggravated assault, 3 counts of criminal possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, and unlawful discharge of a firearm in a city, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;John D. Houze, 27, was charged on Tuesday with 6 counts of aggravated assault, criminal possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, and unlawful discharge of a firearm in a city. Both suspects are being held on a bond of $500,000. King-ingram and Houze are due back in court July 24.

On Tuesday evening police arrested a third suspect identified as&nbsp;23-year-old Jaylen Thomas of Wichita, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.&nbsp; Six days ago police asked the public for help to locate Thomas. Police have not released details of the arrest. <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/InmateSearch/Details.aspx?Id=740180\">He is being held on</a> requested charges of attempted first degree murder, aggravated assault and aggravated battery.&nbsp;The facts of Thomas’ involvement will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney for a charging decision.

A Missouri man arrested in the case July 3 was not charged after the district attorney determined he was acting in self defense.

Just before 1a.m. July 2, police responded to the club in the 200 Block of North Washington, according to Police Lt. Aaron Moses.

There were nine people with gunshot wounds and two people were trampled during the mass exodus out of the club.&nbsp;&nbsp;No one was killed but one person was critically injured.&nbsp; Police originally arrested a Missouri man as a suspect.&nbsp;He was released from jail after the Sedgwick County District Attorney determined he was acting in self defense.

The investigation indicates there were at least four firearms discharged inside the club. Police&nbsp; also seized an additional four firearms as part of the investigation.

The shooting victims included a 21-year-old man, 26-year-old man, 24-year-old woman, 34-year-old man, 21-year-old woman, 30-year-old man, 24-year-old man. The traumatic injury victims were a 31-year-old woman and a 30-year-old man, according to Moses. Two additional gunshot victims checked into the hospital later that day.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688816302231.png" alt="King-Ingram-photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>King-Ingram-photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY — Two men accused in the July 2, mass shooting at the City Nightz Club in Wichita's Old Town have made their initial appearance in court.On Tuesday 19-year-old Ameir King-Ingram was charged with aggravated battery, 6 counts of aggravated assault, 3 counts of criminal possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, and unlawful discharge of a firearm in a city, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689015131240.png" alt="Houze has previous convictions for aggravated battery, criminal possession of a weapon, fleeing police and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections. -photo KDOC " />
 <figcaption>Houze has previous convictions for aggravated battery, criminal possession of a weapon, fleeing police and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections. -photo KDOC </figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;John D. Houze, 27, was charged on Tuesday with 6 counts of aggravated assault, criminal possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, and unlawful discharge of a firearm in a city. Both suspects are being held on a bond of $500,000. King-ingram and Houze are due back in court July 24.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689162087966.png" alt="Thomas was booked into jail just after 10p.m.. Tuesday, according to online jail records." />
 <figcaption>Thomas was booked into jail just after 10p.m.. Tuesday, according to online jail records.</figcaption>
 </figure>On Tuesday evening police arrested a third suspect identified as&nbsp;23-year-old Jaylen Thomas of Wichita, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.&nbsp; Six days ago police asked the public for help to locate Thomas. Police have not released details of the arrest. <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/InmateSearch/Details.aspx?Id=740180\">He is being held on</a> requested charges of attempted first degree murder, aggravated assault and aggravated battery.&nbsp;The facts of Thomas’ involvement will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney for a charging decision.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688300318332.png" alt="Police on the scene of the shooting investigation July 2, -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the shooting investigation July 2, -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>A Missouri man arrested in the case July 3 was not charged after the district attorney determined he was acting in self defense.Just before 1a.m. July 2, police responded to the club in the 200 Block of North Washington, according to Police Lt. Aaron Moses.There were nine people with gunshot wounds and two people were trampled during the mass exodus out of the club.&nbsp;&nbsp;No one was killed but one person was critically injured.&nbsp; Police originally arrested a Missouri man as a suspect.&nbsp;He was released from jail after the Sedgwick County District Attorney determined he was acting in self defense.The investigation indicates there were at least four firearms discharged inside the club. Police&nbsp; also seized an additional four firearms as part of the investigation.The shooting victims included a 21-year-old man, 26-year-old man, 24-year-old woman, 34-year-old man, 21-year-old woman, 30-year-old man, 24-year-old man. The traumatic injury victims were a 31-year-old woman and a 30-year-old man, according to Moses. Two additional gunshot victims checked into the hospital later that day.

2 suspects charged for Wichita mass shooting

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden wants Ukraine to win the war against Russia. But he doesn’t want World War III — especially with nuclear weapons.

(click below to watch the President's comments)

Balancing those two goals has been difficult, and the tension was on particular display at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nato-summit-ukraine-biden-2e7d25531e659bb9aa7274e203b0711b">the NATO summit in Vilnius</a>&nbsp;this week.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nato-joe-biden-ukraine-turkey-sweden-babfa62c0e9f0a76e5417a50c7701b2d">an emotional, even caustic, demand</a>&nbsp;for a clear path toward joining the alliance.

But Biden, who was to try to showcase NATO's strength in a sum-up speech Wednesday evening, was not willing to take that step, even as the United States continues to provide more weapons and ammunition than any other country to Ukraine.

The competing priorities in the midst of Europe’s bloodiest war in generations created an undercurrent of friction even as Biden and Zelenskyy projected a united front during their meeting as the summit drew to a close.

The public encounter had the vibe of two leaders clearing the air, and each conspicuously heaped praise on his counterpart.

Biden lauded Zelenskyy and Ukrainians for their courage by saying it's “been a model for the whole world to see.” Zelenskyy thanked Biden and the American people for billions of dollars in military assistance, saying that “you spend this money for our lives.”

Wearing a blue-and-yellow-striped tie in the colors of the Ukrainian flag, Biden acknowledged that Zelenskyy has occasionally been unsatisfied by unfulfilled requests for weapons.

“The frustration, I can only imagine," Biden said. "I know that you're many times frustrated about whether things get to you quickly enough, what's getting to you and how we're getting it. But I promise you, the United States is doing everything we can to get you what you need.”

Biden also said the war had created a sense of unity about opposing international aggression.

“It’s bringing the world together," he said. "It’s a hell of a price to pay, but it’s bringing the world together.”

The meeting came after a few other encounters between Biden and Zelenskyy at the summit. They sat close to each other at the inaugural meeting of the NATO-Ukraine Council, a new forum that's intended to give Kyiv a greater voice within the alliance.

And they shared the stage as the Group of Seven, which includes the world's most powerful democratic countries, announced plans for long-term security assistance for Ukraine.

But Wednesday afternoon was the first opportunity for Biden and Zelenskyy to sit down privately with their advisers — after their public comments.

And by then, Zelenskyy had softened his tone considerably. En route to Vilnius on Tuesday, he had blasted NATO's vague plans for Ukraine's eventual membership, tweeting, “It’s unprecedented and absurd when a time frame is set neither for the invitation nor for Ukraine’s membership.”

Jake Sullivan, Biden’s national security adviser, said everyone “needs to look squarely at the fact” that allowing Ukraine to join NATO at this point “means war with Russia.”

“That is an inescapable fact,” he told CNN.

Sullivan credited Biden with ensuring that NATO is “more unified and more determined and more decisive than at any point.”

“That’s President Biden’s legacy when it comes to NATO, and it’s one that he can be very proud of," he said.

In an interview with The Associated Press before Biden left on his trip, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell said the president has been “heading in the right direction but not fast enough” when it comes to supporting Ukraine.

“The weapons transfers never seem to happen as soon as they’re announced,” said McConnell, a Kentucky Republican. Although Ukrainians are “extremely grateful for the help,” he said, the assistance "frequently doesn’t get there soon enough to be the most effective.”

Although McConnell has been a firm supporter of sending help to Ukraine, other Republicans have voiced skepticism, creating uncertainty about Biden's ability to make long-term financial commitments.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689177961581.png" alt="Biden lauded Zelenskyy and Ukrainians for their courage by saying it's “been a model for the whole world to see.”-White House photo" />
 <figcaption>Biden lauded Zelenskyy and Ukrainians for their courage by saying it's “been a model for the whole world to see.”-White House photo</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden wants Ukraine to win the war against Russia. But he doesn’t want World War III — especially with nuclear weapons.(click below to watch the President's comments)<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FWhiteHouse%2Fvideos%2F199272586432539%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=119" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Balancing those two goals has been difficult, and the tension was on particular display at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nato-summit-ukraine-biden-2e7d25531e659bb9aa7274e203b0711b">the NATO summit in Vilnius</a>&nbsp;this week.Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nato-joe-biden-ukraine-turkey-sweden-babfa62c0e9f0a76e5417a50c7701b2d">an emotional, even caustic, demand</a>&nbsp;for a clear path toward joining the alliance.But Biden, who was to try to showcase NATO's strength in a sum-up speech Wednesday evening, was not willing to take that step, even as the United States continues to provide more weapons and ammunition than any other country to Ukraine.The competing priorities in the midst of Europe’s bloodiest war in generations created an undercurrent of friction even as Biden and Zelenskyy projected a united front during their meeting as the summit drew to a close.The public encounter had the vibe of two leaders clearing the air, and each conspicuously heaped praise on his counterpart.Biden lauded Zelenskyy and Ukrainians for their courage by saying it's “been a model for the whole world to see.” Zelenskyy thanked Biden and the American people for billions of dollars in military assistance, saying that “you spend this money for our lives.”Wearing a blue-and-yellow-striped tie in the colors of the Ukrainian flag, Biden acknowledged that Zelenskyy has occasionally been unsatisfied by unfulfilled requests for weapons.“The frustration, I can only imagine," Biden said. "I know that you're many times frustrated about whether things get to you quickly enough, what's getting to you and how we're getting it. But I promise you, the United States is doing everything we can to get you what you need.”Biden also said the war had created a sense of unity about opposing international aggression.“It’s bringing the world together," he said. "It’s a hell of a price to pay, but it’s bringing the world together.”The meeting came after a few other encounters between Biden and Zelenskyy at the summit. They sat close to each other at the inaugural meeting of the NATO-Ukraine Council, a new forum that's intended to give Kyiv a greater voice within the alliance.And they shared the stage as the Group of Seven, which includes the world's most powerful democratic countries, announced plans for long-term security assistance for Ukraine.But Wednesday afternoon was the first opportunity for Biden and Zelenskyy to sit down privately with their advisers — after their public comments.And by then, Zelenskyy had softened his tone considerably. En route to Vilnius on Tuesday, he had blasted NATO's vague plans for Ukraine's eventual membership, tweeting, “It’s unprecedented and absurd when a time frame is set neither for the invitation nor for Ukraine’s membership.”Jake Sullivan, Biden’s national security adviser, said everyone “needs to look squarely at the fact” that allowing Ukraine to join NATO at this point “means war with Russia.”“That is an inescapable fact,” he told CNN.Sullivan credited Biden with ensuring that NATO is “more unified and more determined and more decisive than at any point.”“That’s President Biden’s legacy when it comes to NATO, and it’s one that he can be very proud of," he said.In an interview with The Associated Press before Biden left on his trip, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell said the president has been “heading in the right direction but not fast enough” when it comes to supporting Ukraine.“The weapons transfers never seem to happen as soon as they’re announced,” said McConnell, a Kentucky Republican. Although Ukrainians are “extremely grateful for the help,” he said, the assistance "frequently doesn’t get there soon enough to be the most effective.”Although McConnell has been a firm supporter of sending help to Ukraine, other Republicans have voiced skepticism, creating uncertainty about Biden's ability to make long-term financial commitments.

🎥Biden, Zelenskyy praise each other despite divisions over Ukraine war

DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a man's death in Lawrence.

Just before 11a.m. Wednesday, police responded to report of a person near the intersection of 6th Street and Vermont Street, near the Kansas River, that the caller believed was dead, according to a media release.

Officers responded with personnel from Lawrence-Douglas County Fire and Medical and found a man on the ground near trees northwest of the intersection who was confirmed to be dead.

Crime scene investigators processed the scene and discovered evidence that suggests foul play was involved in the death, according to Police Sgt. Drew Fennelly.

 A definitive determination on manner of death will be determined by the Coroner’s office following an autopsy later this week. Police continue to investigate the circumstances leading up to the man’s death. It is currently unknown how long the man had been in the location he was found.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685047344069.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a man's death in Lawrence.Just before 11a.m. Wednesday, police responded to report of a person near the intersection of 6th Street and Vermont Street, near the Kansas River, that the caller believed was dead, according to a media release.Officers responded with personnel from Lawrence-Douglas County Fire and Medical and found a man on the ground near trees northwest of the intersection who was confirmed to be dead.Crime scene investigators processed the scene and discovered evidence that suggests foul play was involved in the death, according to Police Sgt. Drew Fennelly. A definitive determination on manner of death will be determined by the Coroner’s office following an autopsy later this week. Police continue to investigate the circumstances leading up to the man’s death. It is currently unknown how long the man had been in the location he was found.

Police: Man found dead near Kansas River

FINNEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a convicted felon on new charges after an incident in SW Kansas.

Just after 11:30p.m. July 9, officers responded to the north part of Garden City for a reported aggravated burglary, according to a media release.

Officers learned that an individual had entered a residence without permission and left. Through further investigation, it was revealed that 33-year-old James Fernandez followed the the victim in their vehicle and confronted them. 

During the altercation, Fernandez allegedly pulled out a handgun and&nbsp; threatened the individual and a passenger and began punching the victim.

The passenger ran from the scene, at which point Fernandez entered the vehicle and forced the victim to drive to their residence. After arriving at the residence, Fernandez allegedly threatened the victim and a third individual before leaving.On July 10, 

Police located Fernandez at his residence and arrested him on requested charges of Aggravated Kidnapping, three counts of Aggravated Assault, Aggravated Burglary and Criminal Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon.&nbsp; He remains jailed on a $75,000 bond, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689089065338.png" alt="Fernandez-photo Finney Co." />
 <figcaption>Fernandez-photo Finney Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>FINNEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a convicted felon on new charges after an incident in SW Kansas.Just after 11:30p.m. July 9, officers responded to the north part of Garden City for a reported aggravated burglary, according to a media release.Officers learned that an individual had entered a residence without permission and left. Through further investigation, it was revealed that 33-year-old James Fernandez followed the the victim in their vehicle and confronted them. During the altercation, Fernandez allegedly pulled out a handgun and&nbsp; threatened the individual and a passenger and began punching the victim.The passenger ran from the scene, at which point Fernandez entered the vehicle and forced the victim to drive to their residence. After arriving at the residence, Fernandez allegedly threatened the victim and a third individual before leaving.On July 10, Police located Fernandez at his residence and arrested him on requested charges of Aggravated Kidnapping, three counts of Aggravated Assault, Aggravated Burglary and Criminal Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon.&nbsp; He remains jailed on a $75,000 bond, according to online jail records.

Convicted felon remains jailed for SW Kan. kidnapping, assault

WICHITA —The University of Kansas, Wichita State University and WSU Tech are moving forward with plans to build an approximately 470,000‑square‑foot, $300 million shared biomedical campus in the heart of downtown Wichita, according to the Wichita State University web site.

The biomedical campus proposes the creation of a centrally located corridor where health care services, education, research and technology can be established near existing private hospitals and health care providers. That proximity will create efficiencies, strengthen collaboration, and support interprofessional health care learning, while forwarding opportunities for partnerships in new and emerging research fields.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689076220127.png" alt="Concept art only-courtesy Wichita State" />
 <figcaption>Concept art only-courtesy Wichita State</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA —The University of Kansas, Wichita State University and WSU Tech are moving forward with plans to build an approximately 470,000‑square‑foot, $300 million shared biomedical campus in the heart of downtown Wichita, according to the Wichita State University web site.The biomedical campus proposes the creation of a centrally located corridor where health care services, education, research and technology can be established near existing private hospitals and health care providers. That proximity will create efficiencies, strengthen collaboration, and support interprofessional health care learning, while forwarding opportunities for partnerships in new and emerging research fields.<ul>
 <li>A large biomedical campus in a metropolitan area near private hospitals and health care providers will provide&nbsp;opportunities for partnerships in new and emerging research fields.</li><li>Wichita State, WSU Tech and KU have several strong health science and biomedical programs with proven track records for success. Pooling the collective resources and successes of our institutions on one campus will bring about&nbsp;remarkable opportunities for collaboration, innovation and research.</li><li>Initially, about 3,000 students and 200 faculty and staff will be housed at the center with opportunities for growth in existing and new programs. Prioritizing biomedical and health care education in Wichita will send a message to our community and our businesses that we care about our community’s health and are willing to invest in it. The Kansas Legislature has already committed to investing $35 million the project. More investment in health care means&nbsp;more people will be attracted to and stay in Wichita.</li><li>Mental health is paramount to our community, and the Wichita Biomedical Campus will be key to&nbsp;addressing the demand for counselors and therapists&nbsp;in the region.</li><li>The approximately 470,000-square-foot facility will house shared spaces for advanced laboratories, clinical research and technology. The high-tech facility will draw students, educators and researchers from around the country —&nbsp;attracting talent and resources to the Wichita area and&nbsp;boosting the economic success of Kansas.</li>
 </ul>

$300M shared biomedical campus coming to Wichita

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged animal cruelty in Manhattan and after asking the public for help with information reported they have identified the driver, according to a social media report from the Riley County Police Department.

Police released no additional details early Wedesday.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged animal cruelty in Manhattan. On social media late Monday, the Riley County Police Department asked the public for help identifying a Jeep and the driver.

Police want to speak with the driver about a cat in bad shape that was abandoned in a mesh carrier in the parking lot at Hy-Vee, 601 North Third Sunday afternoon.

If you have any information about this car, the driver, or this abandoned animal, please contact us at (785) 537-2112 or email Animal Control at madison.looney@cityofmhk.com or kourtney.brodosi@cityofmhk.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689070670775.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged animal cruelty in Manhattan and after asking the public for help with information reported they have identified the driver, according to a social media report from the Riley County Police Department.Police released no additional details early Wedesday.----------RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged animal cruelty in Manhattan. On social media late Monday, the Riley County Police Department asked the public for help identifying a Jeep and the driver.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Do you recognize this Jeep? We would like to speak with the driver about a cat in bad shape that was abandoned in a mesh carrier at the Hy-Vee parking lot yesterday afternoon. <a href="https://t.co/ruwbUGsfFO">pic.twitter.com/ruwbUGsfFO</a>&mdash; RCPD (@RileyCountyPD) <a href="https://twitter.com/RileyCountyPD/status/1678591693745004544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 11, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Police want to speak with the driver about a cat in bad shape that was abandoned in a mesh carrier in the parking lot at Hy-Vee, 601 North Third Sunday afternoon.If you have any information about this car, the driver, or this abandoned animal, please contact us at (785) 537-2112 or email Animal Control at madison.looney@cityofmhk.com or kourtney.brodosi@cityofmhk.com.

Police ID driver in case of alleged animal cruelty in Manhattan

WICHITA (AP) —A man has been charged with rape and other crimes in a series of sexual assaults on patients in a Kansas hospital, and a 76-year-old woman who says she was among his victims has blamed negligence and carelessness by the facility.

The woman filed a lawsuit Monday against Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Wichita seeking in excess of $75,000.

Miguel Rodela, 28, was charged last month with multiple counts of rape, attempted rape and battery, and is jailed on $250,000 bond. Rodela, who was neither a patient nor a hospital employee, was apprehended in the pre-dawn hours of June 15 after fighting with security guards. His attorney in the public defender's office declined to comment.

The 76-year-old woman said she awoke around 1 a.m. that day to a man manipulating her catheter. She told police she assumed he was fixing it but noticing he was wearing no gloves or medical attire, she told him to find someone else to fix the catheter, according to the probable cause affidavit.

A nurse walked into the room, but when the man said he was a nursing student, the nurse left without questioning him. Soon after, the patient hit a call button to get the nurse to return and the man left. Security was summoned and the woman reported: “He violated me.”

The lawsuit notes that Rodel was in the patient's room for more than 20 minutes.

“No patient should ever have to face such a violation of their dignity and safety, let alone in a hospital setting," her attorney, Matt Dwyer, at Hutton &amp; Hutton Law Firm, said in a written statement.

But that wasn't the end, court records show. The security officer had just started checking surveillance video when he was alerted to another assault on the seventh floor. A nurse technician there found Rodela embracing an 82-year-old woman, his hands under the blankets. The patient said the man had kissed her on the mouth, according to the affidavit.

Soon after that, a security officer on the sixth floor spotted Rodela on top of a 47-year-old patient, lifting up her shirt. The patient had a traumatic brain injury that rendered her unable to speak and Rodela told a nurse he was her relative, although she was skeptical, according to the affidavit.

Under questioning, Rodela told police he had been drinking and having sexual fantasies about hospitalized patients. He said he entered the hospital through a door behind an employee, and that he came into contact with at least three patient. He said he rubbed and kissed them until they woke up, the affidavit said.

The hospital said in a written statement that it is reviewing its security procedures but declined to comment on the litigation.

The lawsuit notes that unionized nurses from the hospital held a one-day strike less than two weeks after the sexual assaults, identifying safety as one of their main concerns.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686922520098.png" alt="Rodela-photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Rodela-photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA (AP) —A man has been charged with rape and other crimes in a series of sexual assaults on patients in a Kansas hospital, and a 76-year-old woman who says she was among his victims has blamed negligence and carelessness by the facility.The woman filed a lawsuit Monday against Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Wichita seeking in excess of $75,000.Miguel Rodela, 28, was charged last month with multiple counts of rape, attempted rape and battery, and is jailed on $250,000 bond. Rodela, who was neither a patient nor a hospital employee, was apprehended in the pre-dawn hours of June 15 after fighting with security guards. His attorney in the public defender's office declined to comment.The 76-year-old woman said she awoke around 1 a.m. that day to a man manipulating her catheter. She told police she assumed he was fixing it but noticing he was wearing no gloves or medical attire, she told him to find someone else to fix the catheter, according to the probable cause affidavit.A nurse walked into the room, but when the man said he was a nursing student, the nurse left without questioning him. Soon after, the patient hit a call button to get the nurse to return and the man left. Security was summoned and the woman reported: “He violated me.”The lawsuit notes that Rodel was in the patient's room for more than 20 minutes.“No patient should ever have to face such a violation of their dignity and safety, let alone in a hospital setting," her attorney, Matt Dwyer, at Hutton &amp; Hutton Law Firm, said in a written statement.But that wasn't the end, court records show. The security officer had just started checking surveillance video when he was alerted to another assault on the seventh floor. A nurse technician there found Rodela embracing an 82-year-old woman, his hands under the blankets. The patient said the man had kissed her on the mouth, according to the affidavit.Soon after that, a security officer on the sixth floor spotted Rodela on top of a 47-year-old patient, lifting up her shirt. The patient had a traumatic brain injury that rendered her unable to speak and Rodela told a nurse he was her relative, although she was skeptical, according to the affidavit.Under questioning, Rodela told police he had been drinking and having sexual fantasies about hospitalized patients. He said he entered the hospital through a door behind an employee, and that he came into contact with at least three patient. He said he rubbed and kissed them until they woke up, the affidavit said.The hospital said in a written statement that it is reviewing its security procedures but declined to comment on the litigation.The lawsuit notes that unionized nurses from the hospital held a one-day strike less than two weeks after the sexual assaults, identifying safety as one of their main concerns.

Woman sued Kan. hospital after man sexually assaulted her 

JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a gunfight that sent two Kansas teens to the hospital.

Just before 2 p.m. Tuesday, police responded to a shooting in the 8800 block of W. 102 Place in Overland. Park, according to Public Information Officer John Lacy.

First responders contacted a boy in the parking lot with a gun shot wound, a non-life threating injury. 

 Witnesses advised a light color SUV occupied by three individuals had fled the scene. Minutes later the police found the SUV involved at W.119th near Blue Valley Parkway. 

 Inside the SUV a boy had also suffered a non-life threatening injury.  Both individuals injured were transported to an area hospital.  The other occupants inside the SUV were not injured.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Police released no additional details and have not reported an arrest.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689123851472.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a gunfight that sent two Kansas teens to the hospital.Just before 2 p.m. Tuesday, police responded to a shooting in the 8800 block of W. 102 Place in Overland. Park, according to Public Information Officer John Lacy.First responders contacted a boy in the parking lot with a gun shot wound, a non-life threating injury. Witnesses advised a light color SUV occupied by three individuals had fled the scene. Minutes later the police found the SUV involved at W.119th near Blue Valley Parkway. Inside the SUV a boy had also suffered a non-life threatening injury. Both individuals injured were transported to an area hospital. The other occupants inside the SUV were not injured.&nbsp;&nbsp;Police released no additional details and have not reported an arrest.

2 Kansas teens hospitalized after gunfight

McCracken Rodeo begins today with National Barrel Racers

KANSAS CITY—One person died in a fire Tuesday in Kansas City.

Just after 3p.m. crews responded to a fire at a home in the 5500 Block of Hardesty Avenue, according to a media release.

A man outside the house said his grandmother had gone back inside to get her dog, according to a fire department news release.

Firefighters found the woman and were able to lift her through a window. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

A preliminary investigation determined the cause of the fire was electrical. The woman's name has not been released.

KANSAS CITY—One person died in a fire Tuesday in Kansas City.Just after 3p.m. crews responded to a fire at a home in the 5500 Block of Hardesty Avenue, according to a media release.A man outside the house said his grandmother had gone back inside to get her dog, according to a fire department news release.Firefighters found the woman and were able to lift her through a window. She was pronounced dead at the scene.A preliminary investigation determined the cause of the fire was electrical. The woman's name has not been released.

Woman attempting to save her dog dies in KC house fire 

WASHINGTON&nbsp;– U.S. Senator Jerry Moran – ranking member of the Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Aviation Safety, Operations, and Innovation&nbsp; wrote the following op-ed for&nbsp;<a href="https://aviationweek.com/air-transport/safety-ops-regulation/opinion-faa-safety-starts-top" target="_blank">Aviation Week</a>&nbsp;urging President Biden to put forward an experienced nominee to lead the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).&nbsp;

The full op-ed is reprinted below.

Every flight in the U.S., whether of a FedEx cargo aircraft or an American Airlines passenger airliner, requires a network of experts to load, taxi, take off, navigate and land safely. Every link in the chain must perform its duty skillfully for safe and efficient air travel. America has excelled at this process for a century, resulting in the U.S. aviation industry comprising 5% of the country’s GDP and sustaining more than 2 million jobs. Aviation is a valuable sector of our economy, and the entire industry rests on the authority of the FAA to set the rules and policies that govern the skies. The FAA is responsible for the safety of travelers and is vital to our nation’s economy, which is why it is deeply concerning that the agency has not had a permanent, Senate-approved leader—the FAA administrator—for more than 450 days. This vacancy is having a ripple effect not just in aviation but across multiple sectors and industries. The FAA stands at an important juncture as it navigates an evolving environment. Demand for air travel has returned at an unprecedented pace following the COVID-19 pandemic, and new and evolving aircraft are rapidly being introduced into our National Airspace System. Severe and sometimes chaotic and dangerous disruptions continue to face Americans attempting to fly during holidays. A record number of air travelers and consumers dealt with thousands of canceled flights and tens of thousands of flight delays nationwide over this Fourth of July long weekend. We have also seen near collisions on the runway and emergency landings. To meet these current challenges, the FAA requires modernization and good leadership throughout the agency. The current FAA Reauthorization Act is set to expire this fall. I have worked with my colleagues to write the legislation to reauthorize the FAA while also using my position on the Senate Appropriations Committee’s subcommittee on transportation, housing and urban development and related agencies to provide the FAA with the right resources. We must conduct proper oversight of the FAA and provide the agency with the tools it needs to evolve and excel. However, even with new resources and modernized authorities, these are just words on paper without an FAA administrator. The agency is too critical to be guided by interim leaders. We need a confirmed administrator. The U.S. has long been a leader in aerospace by leaning into challenges and opportunities. Innovation, fostered with appropriate safety oversight by the government, can help cement the U.S. as a competitor on the global scale. While Congress can help ensure resources, craft authorizing language and provide the FAA with most of the tools it needs to succeed, the agency must have a leader with a steady hand at the helm. The White House must act to nominate an individual with extensive experience in transportation and aviation, an understanding of the role the FAA plays in consumer safety and knowledge of the business models by which aviation works in the U.S. and around the world. I urge the president to put forward an experienced nominee so the FAA can reduce disruptions for air travelers, ensure the safety of our skies and guide us into the next era of aviation.

WASHINGTON&nbsp;– U.S. Senator Jerry Moran – ranking member of the Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Aviation Safety, Operations, and Innovation&nbsp; wrote the following op-ed for&nbsp;<a href="https://aviationweek.com/air-transport/safety-ops-regulation/opinion-faa-safety-starts-top" target="_blank">Aviation Week</a>&nbsp;urging President Biden to put forward an experienced nominee to lead the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).&nbsp; The full op-ed is reprinted below.Every flight in the U.S., whether of a FedEx cargo aircraft or an American Airlines passenger airliner, requires a network of experts to load, taxi, take off, navigate and land safely. Every link in the chain must perform its duty skillfully for safe and efficient air travel. America has excelled at this process for a century, resulting in the U.S. aviation industry comprising 5% of the country’s GDP and sustaining more than 2 million jobs. Aviation is a valuable sector of our economy, and the entire industry rests on the authority of the FAA to set the rules and policies that govern the skies. The FAA is responsible for the safety of travelers and is vital to our nation’s economy, which is why it is deeply concerning that the agency has not had a permanent, Senate-approved leader—the FAA administrator—for more than 450 days. This vacancy is having a ripple effect not just in aviation but across multiple sectors and industries. The FAA stands at an important juncture as it navigates an evolving environment. Demand for air travel has returned at an unprecedented pace following the COVID-19 pandemic, and new and evolving aircraft are rapidly being introduced into our National Airspace System. Severe and sometimes chaotic and dangerous disruptions continue to face Americans attempting to fly during holidays. A record number of air travelers and consumers dealt with thousands of canceled flights and tens of thousands of flight delays nationwide over this Fourth of July long weekend. We have also seen near collisions on the runway and emergency landings. To meet these current challenges, the FAA requires modernization and good leadership throughout the agency. The current FAA Reauthorization Act is set to expire this fall. I have worked with my colleagues to write the legislation to reauthorize the FAA while also using my position on the Senate Appropriations Committee’s subcommittee on transportation, housing and urban development and related agencies to provide the FAA with the right resources. We must conduct proper oversight of the FAA and provide the agency with the tools it needs to evolve and excel. However, even with new resources and modernized authorities, these are just words on paper without an FAA administrator. The agency is too critical to be guided by interim leaders. We need a confirmed administrator. The U.S. has long been a leader in aerospace by leaning into challenges and opportunities. Innovation, fostered with appropriate safety oversight by the government, can help cement the U.S. as a competitor on the global scale. While Congress can help ensure resources, craft authorizing language and provide the FAA with most of the tools it needs to succeed, the agency must have a leader with a steady hand at the helm. The White House must act to nominate an individual with extensive experience in transportation and aviation, an understanding of the role the FAA plays in consumer safety and knowledge of the business models by which aviation works in the U.S. and around the world. I urge the president to put forward an experienced nominee so the FAA can reduce disruptions for air travelers, ensure the safety of our skies and guide us into the next era of aviation.

Moran: The U.S. needs a confirmed FAA administrator

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating the July 2, mass shooting at the City Nightz Club in Wichita's Old Town have arrested 23-year-old Jaylen Thomas of Wichita, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.&nbsp; This is the fourth arrest of a shooter from this incident. Five days ago police asked the public for help to locate Thomas. Police have not released details of the arrest. He is being held on requested charges of attempted first degree murder, aggravated assault and aggravated battery.

On Friday police arrested 19-year-old Ameir King-Ingram and booked him into the Sedgwick County jail for his role in the shooting.

Just before noon Monday police booked 27-year-old John D. Houze for the shooting&nbsp; as well as a Kansas Department of Corrections warrant stemming from the shooting.

A Missouri man arrested in the case was not charged after the district attorney determined he was acting in self defense.

The shooting victims included a 21-year-old man, 26-year-old man, 24-year-old woman, 34-year-old man, 21-year-old woman, 30-year-old man, 24-year-old man. The traumatic injury victims were a 31-year-old woman and a 30-year-old man, according to Moses. Two additional gunshot victims checked into the hospital later Sunday.

On Tuesday King-Ingram was charged with aggravated battery, 6 counts of aggravated assault, 3 counts of criminal possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, and unlawful discharge of a firearm in a city, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney. \  His bond is $500,000.&nbsp;

Houze was charged on Tuesday with 6 counts of aggravated assault, criminal possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, and unlawful discharge of a firearm in a city. His bond is $500,000. King-ingram and Houze are due back in court July 24.

The facts of Thomas’ involvement will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney for a charging decision.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689162087966.png" alt="Thomas-photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Thomas-photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating the July 2, mass shooting at the City Nightz Club in Wichita's Old Town have arrested 23-year-old Jaylen Thomas of Wichita, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.&nbsp; This is the fourth arrest of a shooter from this incident. Five days ago police asked the public for help to locate Thomas. Police have not released details of the arrest. He is being held on requested charges of attempted first degree murder, aggravated assault and aggravated battery.On Friday police arrested 19-year-old Ameir King-Ingram and booked him into the Sedgwick County jail for his role in the shooting.Just before noon Monday police booked 27-year-old John D. Houze for the shooting&nbsp; as well as a Kansas Department of Corrections warrant stemming from the shooting.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688300318332.png" alt="Police on the scene of the shooting investigation July 2, -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the shooting investigation July 2, -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>A Missouri man arrested in the case was not charged after the district attorney determined he was acting in self defense.Just before 1a.m. July 2, police responded to the club in the 200 Block of North Washington, according to Police Lt. Aaron Moses.There were nine people with gunshot wounds and two people were trampled during the mass exodus out of the club.&nbsp;&nbsp;No one was killed but one person was critically injured.&nbsp; Police originally arrested a Missouri man as a suspect.&nbsp;He was released from jail after the Sedgwick County District Attorney determined he was acting in self defense.The investigation indicates there were at least four firearms discharged inside the club. Police&nbsp; also seized an additional four firearms as part of the investigation.The shooting victims included a 21-year-old man, 26-year-old man, 24-year-old woman, 34-year-old man, 21-year-old woman, 30-year-old man, 24-year-old man. The traumatic injury victims were a 31-year-old woman and a 30-year-old man, according to Moses. Two additional gunshot victims checked into the hospital later Sunday.On Tuesday King-Ingram was charged with aggravated battery, 6 counts of aggravated assault, 3 counts of criminal possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, and unlawful discharge of a firearm in a city, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney. \ His bond is $500,000.&nbsp;Houze was charged on Tuesday with 6 counts of aggravated assault, criminal possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, and unlawful discharge of a firearm in a city. His bond is $500,000. King-ingram and Houze are due back in court July 24.The facts of Thomas’ involvement will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney for a charging decision.

Police capture another suspect wanted for Wichita mass shooting

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man and teen in connection with an abduction and high-speed chase.

Just after 10p.m. July 9, the Bates County Sheriff’s Office was notified by the Cass County Sheriff’s Office of a woman reporting that her daughter was being held against her will and taken from the Kansas City area and had sent a text message to her mother identifying the two males and the vehicle. 

  Cass County Sheriffs Office initially advised the last known location was on Interstate 49 North of Archie.

 A short time later they advised the vehicle would be around the Adrian area on Interstate 49.  At approximately 10:20pm a State Trooper and a Sheriff's&nbsp; Deputy observed the suspect vehicle in the Passaic area as it traveled into the construction zone on Interstate 49. 

 The Trooper and Deputy coordinated together on determining the safest location to initiate a traffic stop.  The Trooper attempted to initiate a traffic stop on the vehicle at 52 Highway and Interstate 49.  The vehicle failed to pull over and the pursuit traveled west on 52 Highway from Butler. 

 The vehicle then traveled north on County Road 2001.   A deputy then took over the pursuit with the intent to utilize the Grappler on the vehicle when it was at a safe place to do so. 

 Because of the road condition and visibility the deputy did not deploy the Grappler.   The pursuit continued northbound until it reached TT Highway where it traveled eastbound back toward Business 49. 

 The Sheriff and several other deputies were called from home to assist in the pursuit.  Sheriff Chad Anderson was able to successfully deploy spike strips on TT Highway just before Business 49. 

  The vehicle traveled northbound on Business 49 toward Passaic where its tires began to lose tread.   Just south of Passaic two deputies utilized their vehicles to pin the vehicle in and brought it to a stop. 

 The vehicle then broke free and attempted to continue to flee the stop.  As Sheriff Anderson was approaching the stop he observed the vehicle break free at which point the Sheriff utilized his patrol truck and performed a PIT maneuver pushing the vehicle to the side of the road where all three patrol vehicles could box it in and bring the vehicle to a permanent stop. 

 Two male occupants later identified as&nbsp;20-year-old Jose Gonzalez of Kansas, Kansas and a 17-year-old&nbsp; were extracted from the front of the vehicle and the woman was rescued from the rear. 

The 17-year-old and was turned over to the Juvenile Office. Gonzalez was taken to the Sheriff’s Office pending formal charges.

The victim was transported to the Hospital where she was met by the Bates County Victim Advocate and reunited with her family.  A search of the vehicle revealed that the suspects were armed with a loaded Draco Ak47 Pistol. 

 The suspect vehicle was towed from the scene.  One patrol vehicle received moderate damage but was driven away from the scene. 

&nbsp;Gonzalez and the 17-year-old are being held on requested charges of kidnapping in the second degree, unlawful possession of a firearm and resisting arrest by fleeing, creating a substantial risk of serious injury or death. Bond was set at $25,000 cash only. Additional charges are being reviewed by the Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689039758887.png" alt="Gonzalez-photo Bates Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Gonzalez-photo Bates Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man and teen in connection with an abduction and high-speed chase.Just after 10p.m. July 9, the Bates County Sheriff’s Office was notified by the Cass County Sheriff’s Office of a woman reporting that her daughter was being held against her will and taken from the Kansas City area and had sent a text message to her mother identifying the two males and the vehicle. Cass County Sheriffs Office initially advised the last known location was on Interstate 49 North of Archie. A short time later they advised the vehicle would be around the Adrian area on Interstate 49. At approximately 10:20pm a State Trooper and a Sheriff's&nbsp; Deputy observed the suspect vehicle in the Passaic area as it traveled into the construction zone on Interstate 49. The Trooper and Deputy coordinated together on determining the safest location to initiate a traffic stop. The Trooper attempted to initiate a traffic stop on the vehicle at 52 Highway and Interstate 49. The vehicle failed to pull over and the pursuit traveled west on 52 Highway from Butler. The vehicle then traveled north on County Road 2001. A deputy then took over the pursuit with the intent to utilize the Grappler on the vehicle when it was at a safe place to do so. Because of the road condition and visibility the deputy did not deploy the Grappler. The pursuit continued northbound until it reached TT Highway where it traveled eastbound back toward Business 49. The Sheriff and several other deputies were called from home to assist in the pursuit. Sheriff Chad Anderson was able to successfully deploy spike strips on TT Highway just before Business 49. The vehicle traveled northbound on Business 49 toward Passaic where its tires began to lose tread. Just south of Passaic two deputies utilized their vehicles to pin the vehicle in and brought it to a stop. The vehicle then broke free and attempted to continue to flee the stop. As Sheriff Anderson was approaching the stop he observed the vehicle break free at which point the Sheriff utilized his patrol truck and performed a PIT maneuver pushing the vehicle to the side of the road where all three patrol vehicles could box it in and bring the vehicle to a permanent stop. Two male occupants later identified as&nbsp;20-year-old Jose Gonzalez of Kansas, Kansas and a 17-year-old&nbsp; were extracted from the front of the vehicle and the woman was rescued from the rear. The 17-year-old and was turned over to the Juvenile Office. Gonzalez was taken to the Sheriff’s Office pending formal charges.The victim was transported to the Hospital where she was met by the Bates County Victim Advocate and reunited with her family. A search of the vehicle revealed that the suspects were armed with a loaded Draco Ak47 Pistol. The suspect vehicle was towed from the scene. One patrol vehicle received moderate damage but was driven away from the scene. &nbsp;Gonzalez and the 17-year-old are being held on requested charges of kidnapping in the second degree, unlawful possession of a firearm and resisting arrest by fleeing, creating a substantial risk of serious injury or death. Bond was set at $25,000 cash only. Additional charges are being reviewed by the Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office.

Kan. man, teen jailed for allegedly holding woman against her will

SEDGWICK COUNTY —The Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office, with the assistance of the United States Marshals Service, recently completed a three-month sex offender operation “Operation New Day," according to Sheriff Jeff Easter.

Beginning April 1, and continuing through June 30, deputies with the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office Offender Registration Unit and deputies of the United States Marshals Service conducted 1,015 compliance checks on registered sex offenders in Sedgwick County.&nbsp; 

There were 31 offenders found to be non-compliant and 18 were arrested for Violation of the Offender Registration Act.&nbsp; The operation was conducted during regular duty hours as well as after hours and utilized over 350 man-hours of Sheriff’s Office personnel.

The USMS Sex Offender Investigations Branch (SOIB) was created following the passage of the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act (AWA), which became law on July 27, 2006. 

The SOIB carries out the USMS’s three principal responsibilities under the AWA: &nbsp;assist state, local, tribal, and territorial authorities in the location and apprehension of non-compliant and fugitive sex offenders; investigate violations of the act for federal prosecution; and assist in the identification and location of sex offenders relocated as a result of a major disaster. To ensure the safety of communities and children across the country, the USMS has implemented an aggressive enforcement strategy for its responsibilities under the AWA

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689082327438.png" alt="On June 7, deputies arrested 31-year-old Brandon True for a third violation of the offender registration act, according to the Sedgwick County daily booking records. He has been listed as a registered sex offender since 2012 after a felony conviction for attempted criminal sodomy involving a child under the age of 16 in 2009, according to the KBI Offender Registry" />
 <figcaption>On June 7, deputies arrested 31-year-old Brandon True for a third violation of the offender registration act, according to the Sedgwick County daily booking records. He has been listed as a registered sex offender since 2012 after a felony conviction for attempted criminal sodomy involving a child under the age of 16 in 2009, according to the KBI Offender Registry</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —The Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office, with the assistance of the United States Marshals Service, recently completed a three-month sex offender operation “Operation New Day," according to Sheriff Jeff Easter.Beginning April 1, and continuing through June 30, deputies with the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office Offender Registration Unit and deputies of the United States Marshals Service conducted 1,015 compliance checks on registered sex offenders in Sedgwick County.&nbsp; There were 31 offenders found to be non-compliant and 18 were arrested for Violation of the Offender Registration Act.&nbsp; The operation was conducted during regular duty hours as well as after hours and utilized over 350 man-hours of Sheriff’s Office personnel.The USMS Sex Offender Investigations Branch (SOIB) was created following the passage of the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act (AWA), which became law on July 27, 2006. The SOIB carries out the USMS’s three principal responsibilities under the AWA: &nbsp;assist state, local, tribal, and territorial authorities in the location and apprehension of non-compliant and fugitive sex offenders; investigate violations of the act for federal prosecution; and assist in the identification and location of sex offenders relocated as a result of a major disaster. To ensure the safety of communities and children across the country, the USMS has implemented an aggressive enforcement strategy for its responsibilities under the AWA

18 sex offenders arrested in months-long Kansas operation 

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Charles Manson follower Leslie Van Houten walked out of a California prison Tuesday after serving more than 50 years of a life sentence for her participation in two infamous murders.

Van Houten “was released to parole supervision,” the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation said in a statement.

She left the California Institution for Women in Corona, east of Los Angeles, in the early morning hours and was driven to transitional housing, her attorney Nancy Tetreault said.

“She’s still trying to get used to the idea that this real,” Tetreault told The Associated Press.

Days earlier Gov. Gavin Newsom announced he would not fight a state appeals court ruling that Van Houten should be granted parole. He said it was unlikely the state Supreme Court would consider an appeal.

Van Houten, now in her 70s, received a life sentence for helping Manson’s followers carry out the August 1969 killings of Leno LaBianca, a grocer in Los Angeles, and his wife, Rosemary.

The LaBiancas were killed in their home, and their blood was smeared on the walls afterward. Van Houten later described holding Rosemary LaBianca down with a pillowcase over her head as others stabbed her. Then, ordered by Manson follower Charles “Tex” Watson to “do something,” Van Houten said, she picked up a knife and stabbed the woman more than a dozen times.

The slayings happened the day after Manson followers killed actress Sharon Tate and four others. Van Houten, who was 19 at the time, did not participate in the Tate killings.

Van Houten is expected to spend about a year at a halfway house, learning basic skills such as how to drive a car, go to the grocery store and get a debit card, according to her attorney.

“She has to learn to use to use the internet. She has to learn to buy things without cash,” Tetreault said. “It's a very different world than when she went in.”

Van Houten, who will likely be on parole for about three years, hopes to get a job as soon as possible, Tetreault said. She earned a bachelors and a masters degree in counseling while in prison and worked as a tutor for other incarcerated people.

Van Houten was found suitable for parole after a July 2020 hearing, but her release was blocked by Newsom, who maintained she was still a threat to society.

She filed an appeal with a trial court, which rejected it, and then turned to the appellate courts. The Second District Court of Appeal in May reversed Newsom's rejection of her parole.

Newsom was disappointed by the appeals court decision, his office said.

“More than 50 years after the Manson cult committed these brutal killings, the victims’ families still feel the impact,” the governor’s office said in a July 7 statement.

In all, Van Houten had been recommended for parole five times since 2016. All of those recommendations were denied by either Newsom or former Gov. Jerry Brown.

Cory LaBianca, Leno LaBianca’s daughter, said last week that her family was heartbroken by the possibility that Van Houten could be released.

Van Houten, a former high school cheerleader and homecoming princess, saw her life spiral out of control at 14 following her parents’ divorce. She turned to drugs and became pregnant but said her mother forced her to abort the fetus and bury it in the family’s backyard.

Van Houten met Manson at an old movie ranch on the outskirts of Los Angeles where he had established his so-called family of followers.

Manson died in prison in 2017 of natural causes at age 83 after nearly half a century behind bars.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689111766612.png" alt="Leslie Van Houten photo California Dept. of Corrections" />
 <figcaption>Leslie Van Houten photo California Dept. of Corrections</figcaption>
 </figure>LOS ANGELES (AP) — Charles Manson follower Leslie Van Houten walked out of a California prison Tuesday after serving more than 50 years of a life sentence for her participation in two infamous murders.Van Houten “was released to parole supervision,” the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation said in a statement.She left the California Institution for Women in Corona, east of Los Angeles, in the early morning hours and was driven to transitional housing, her attorney Nancy Tetreault said.“She’s still trying to get used to the idea that this real,” Tetreault told The Associated Press.Days earlier Gov. Gavin Newsom announced he would not fight a state appeals court ruling that Van Houten should be granted parole. He said it was unlikely the state Supreme Court would consider an appeal.Van Houten, now in her 70s, received a life sentence for helping Manson’s followers carry out the August 1969 killings of Leno LaBianca, a grocer in Los Angeles, and his wife, Rosemary.The LaBiancas were killed in their home, and their blood was smeared on the walls afterward. Van Houten later described holding Rosemary LaBianca down with a pillowcase over her head as others stabbed her. Then, ordered by Manson follower Charles “Tex” Watson to “do something,” Van Houten said, she picked up a knife and stabbed the woman more than a dozen times.The slayings happened the day after Manson followers killed actress Sharon Tate and four others. Van Houten, who was 19 at the time, did not participate in the Tate killings.Van Houten is expected to spend about a year at a halfway house, learning basic skills such as how to drive a car, go to the grocery store and get a debit card, according to her attorney.“She has to learn to use to use the internet. She has to learn to buy things without cash,” Tetreault said. “It's a very different world than when she went in.”Van Houten, who will likely be on parole for about three years, hopes to get a job as soon as possible, Tetreault said. She earned a bachelors and a masters degree in counseling while in prison and worked as a tutor for other incarcerated people.Van Houten was found suitable for parole after a July 2020 hearing, but her release was blocked by Newsom, who maintained she was still a threat to society.She filed an appeal with a trial court, which rejected it, and then turned to the appellate courts. The Second District Court of Appeal in May reversed Newsom's rejection of her parole.Newsom was disappointed by the appeals court decision, his office said.“More than 50 years after the Manson cult committed these brutal killings, the victims’ families still feel the impact,” the governor’s office said in a July 7 statement.In all, Van Houten had been recommended for parole five times since 2016. All of those recommendations were denied by either Newsom or former Gov. Jerry Brown.Cory LaBianca, Leno LaBianca’s daughter, said last week that her family was heartbroken by the possibility that Van Houten could be released.Van Houten, a former high school cheerleader and homecoming princess, saw her life spiral out of control at 14 following her parents’ divorce. She turned to drugs and became pregnant but said her mother forced her to abort the fetus and bury it in the family’s backyard.Van Houten met Manson at an old movie ranch on the outskirts of Los Angeles where he had established his so-called family of followers.Manson died in prison in 2017 of natural causes at age 83 after nearly half a century behind bars.

Charles Manson follower released from prison 53-years after grisly killings

JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspect on&nbsp;

Just before 4 p.m. July 8, a Sheriff’s Deputy observed a red Ford Focus that turned into an address east of 75 Highway on 134th&nbsp;Road, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

The deputy believed the actions of the driver appeared to be suspicious in nature. Deputies contacted the driver and individuals in the vehicle. A Jackson County Sheriff K-9 alerted on the vehicle for the presence of illegal drugs.

The driver, 36-year-old Alisha Dawn Swiger, of Independence, Missouri was arrested for felony contributing to a childs misconduct, possession of a hallucinogenic drug, possession of drug paraphernalia, making false information, criminal trespass, driving while suspended and no insurance.

A passenger, Tanisha Liane Flournoy, 38, of Kansas City, Kansas was arrested for possession of methamphetamine, felony interference with law enforcement, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a hallucinogenic drug. The Hoyt Police Department assisted deputies with the incident.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688992997003.png" alt="Flournoy-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Flournoy-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspect on&nbsp;Just before 4 p.m. July 8, a Sheriff’s Deputy observed a red Ford Focus that turned into an address east of 75 Highway on 134th&nbsp;Road, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.The deputy believed the actions of the driver appeared to be suspicious in nature. Deputies contacted the driver and individuals in the vehicle. A Jackson County Sheriff K-9 alerted on the vehicle for the presence of illegal drugs.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688992937485.png" alt="Swiger-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Swiger-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>The driver, 36-year-old Alisha Dawn Swiger, of Independence, Missouri was arrested for felony contributing to a childs misconduct, possession of a hallucinogenic drug, possession of drug paraphernalia, making false information, criminal trespass, driving while suspended and no insurance.A passenger, Tanisha Liane Flournoy, 38, of Kansas City, Kansas was arrested for possession of methamphetamine, felony interference with law enforcement, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a hallucinogenic drug. The Hoyt Police Department assisted deputies with the incident.

Kan. deputies catch two women transporting drugs

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating two&nbsp; shooting incidents have arrested 71-year-old Kansas felon Samuel L. Neal.&nbsp; &nbsp;Police had asked the public for help to locate him.

Just after 12:30a.m. Tuesday, police responded to a shooting in the 1100 block of South Emporia, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo. Officers located a 21-year-old man with non-life-threatening gunshot wounds.

&nbsp;Through the investigation, detectives identified Samuel Neal as a suspect. He is also believed to be the suspect in another shooting on July 9.&nbsp; <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/InmateSearch/Details.aspx?Id=741136">Police booked him into the</a> Sedgwick County Jail just after 1p.m. Tuesday on requested charges of aggravated battery, aggravated assault and parole violations, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689162169452.png" alt="Neal-photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Neal-photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating two&nbsp; shooting incidents have arrested 71-year-old Kansas felon Samuel L. Neal.&nbsp; &nbsp;Police had asked the public for help to locate him.Just after 12:30a.m. Tuesday, police responded to a shooting in the 1100 block of South Emporia, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo. Officers located a 21-year-old man with non-life-threatening gunshot wounds.&nbsp;Through the investigation, detectives identified Samuel Neal as a suspect. He is also believed to be the suspect in another shooting on July 9.&nbsp; <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/InmateSearch/Details.aspx?Id=741136">Police booked him into the</a> Sedgwick County Jail just after 1p.m. Tuesday on requested charges of aggravated battery, aggravated assault and parole violations, according to online jail records.Neal was released from prison in 2019 after a manslaughter conviction on a crime that occurred in 1979, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.