WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court seemed concerned Wednesday about the sweep of Trump administration rules that would allow more employers who cite a religious or moral objection to opt out of providing no-cost birth control to women as required by the Affordable Care Act.

<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?471642-1/supreme-court-pennsylvania-consolidated-health-care-oral-argument">Click here to </a>listen to the oral arguments&nbsp;

The justices were hearing their third day of arguments conducted by telephone because of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak">coronavirus</a>&nbsp;pandemic. The first of two cases before them Wednesday stemmed from the Obama-era&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hhs.gov/healthcare/index.html" target="_blank">health law</a>, under which most employers must cover birth control as a preventive service, at no charge to women, in their insurance plans.

In 2017, the Trump administration announced it would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/8c90eb432f73420786de1c05da872761">broaden an exemption</a>&nbsp;to the contraceptive coverage requirement that previously applied to houses of worship, such as churches, synagogues and mosques. But the change was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/6bf623038da94f6ba74d71761f0cf665">blocked</a>&nbsp;by courts.

The Supreme Court’s four liberal justices suggested they were troubled by the changes, which the government has estimated would cause about 70,000 women, and at most 126,000 women, to lose contraception coverage in one year.

Chief Justice John Roberts, a key vote on a court split between conservatives and liberals, suggested that the Trump administration’s reliance on a federal religious freedom law to expand the exemption was “too broad.”

And Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who joined the conversation from a Maryland hospital where she was being&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/492bd1ec13861b0d874e50540babf850">treated for an infection caused by a gallstone</a>, gave the government’s top Supreme Court lawyer, Solicitor General Noel Franciso, what sounded like a lecture.

“You have just tossed entirely to the wind what Congress thought was essential, that is that women be provided these .... services with no hassle, no cost to them,” said Ginsburg, who is expected to be in the hospital for a day or two.

The court’s conservative justices seemed more willing to side with the administration, with Trump appointee Justice Brett Kavanaugh suggesting the administration’s changes might be considered “within the bounds of reasonable.”

Beyond exempting churches, synagogues and mosques from the contraceptive coverage requirement, the Obama administration also created a way by which religiously affiliated organizations including hospitals, universities and charities could opt out of paying for contraception, but women on their health plans would still get no-cost birth control. Some groups complained the opt-out process itself violated their religious beliefs.

That opt-out process was the subject of a previous Supreme Court case, but the court, with only eight justices at the time because of the death of Justice Antonin Scalia, didn’t decide the issue. It instead sent both sides back to see if they could work out a compromise.

That didn’t happen. “Is it really the case that there is no way to resolve those differences?” Roberts asked at one point.

After the Trump administration took over, officials&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/b674390fd9d94e5db5dfbcc8e8ec01fc/Birth-control:-Trump-expands-opt-out-for-workplace-insurance">announced a rule change</a>&nbsp;that allows many companies and organization with religious or moral objections to opt out of covering birth control without providing an alternate avenue for coverage.

New Jersey and Pennsylvania challenged the rules in court, and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/6bf623038da94f6ba74d71761f0cf665">a judge blocked them from going into effect</a>. The judge found the Trump administration did not follow proper procedures for issuing the rules. An&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/bc40afa1e7614a979b56926a80c06192">appeals court agreed</a>, and the administration appealed to the Supreme Court to step in, as did the Little Sisters of the Poor. The order of Roman Catholic nuns had been instrumental in challenging the Obama administration rules.

But on Wednesday, Justice Sonia Sotomayor questioned why the Little Sisters of the Poor were even at the court because for a number of reasons they don’t have to provide contraceptive coverage. Sotomayor also referenced the coronavirus pandemic during her questioning, asking attorney Paul Clement, who was representing the nuns, whether an employer might be able to object to paying for a coronavirus vaccine. He said “no.”

Even though the Trump rules remain blocked, a ruling by a federal judge in Texas in June already allows most people who object to covering contraception to avoid doing so.

In the second case the justices heard Wednesday, political consultants and pollsters were among those asking the Supreme Court to strike down a federal law from 1991 that bars them from making robocalls to cellphones. The case only arose after Congress in 2015 created an exception in the law that allows the automated calls for collection of government debt.

The court wrestled with whether it could get rid of just the government-debt restriction or would have to invalidate the entire ban on cellphone robocalls. “No one wants robocalls on their cellphone,” Roberts said, though he typically votes for the challengers in free-speech cases.

The argument provided a light moment of the day when Justice Stephen Breyer got cut off when someone tried calling him. Breyer said after he rejoined the court’s arguments: “The telephone started to ring, and it cut me off the call and I don’t think it was a robocall.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588794154314.png" alt="photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court seemed concerned Wednesday about the sweep of Trump administration rules that would allow more employers who cite a religious or moral objection to opt out of providing no-cost birth control to women as required by the Affordable Care Act.<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?471642-1/supreme-court-pennsylvania-consolidated-health-care-oral-argument">Click here to </a>listen to the oral arguments&nbsp;The justices were hearing their third day of arguments conducted by telephone because of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak">coronavirus</a>&nbsp;pandemic. The first of two cases before them Wednesday stemmed from the Obama-era&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hhs.gov/healthcare/index.html" target="_blank">health law</a>, under which most employers must cover birth control as a preventive service, at no charge to women, in their insurance plans.In 2017, the Trump administration announced it would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/8c90eb432f73420786de1c05da872761">broaden an exemption</a>&nbsp;to the contraceptive coverage requirement that previously applied to houses of worship, such as churches, synagogues and mosques. But the change was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/6bf623038da94f6ba74d71761f0cf665">blocked</a>&nbsp;by courts.The Supreme Court’s four liberal justices suggested they were troubled by the changes, which the government has estimated would cause about 70,000 women, and at most 126,000 women, to lose contraception coverage in one year.Chief Justice John Roberts, a key vote on a court split between conservatives and liberals, suggested that the Trump administration’s reliance on a federal religious freedom law to expand the exemption was “too broad.”And Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who joined the conversation from a Maryland hospital where she was being&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/492bd1ec13861b0d874e50540babf850">treated for an infection caused by a gallstone</a>, gave the government’s top Supreme Court lawyer, Solicitor General Noel Franciso, what sounded like a lecture.“You have just tossed entirely to the wind what Congress thought was essential, that is that women be provided these .... services with no hassle, no cost to them,” said Ginsburg, who is expected to be in the hospital for a day or two.The court’s conservative justices seemed more willing to side with the administration, with Trump appointee Justice Brett Kavanaugh suggesting the administration’s changes might be considered “within the bounds of reasonable.”Beyond exempting churches, synagogues and mosques from the contraceptive coverage requirement, the Obama administration also created a way by which religiously affiliated organizations including hospitals, universities and charities could opt out of paying for contraception, but women on their health plans would still get no-cost birth control. Some groups complained the opt-out process itself violated their religious beliefs.That opt-out process was the subject of a previous Supreme Court case, but the court, with only eight justices at the time because of the death of Justice Antonin Scalia, didn’t decide the issue. It instead sent both sides back to see if they could work out a compromise.That didn’t happen. “Is it really the case that there is no way to resolve those differences?” Roberts asked at one point.After the Trump administration took over, officials&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/b674390fd9d94e5db5dfbcc8e8ec01fc/Birth-control:-Trump-expands-opt-out-for-workplace-insurance">announced a rule change</a>&nbsp;that allows many companies and organization with religious or moral objections to opt out of covering birth control without providing an alternate avenue for coverage.New Jersey and Pennsylvania challenged the rules in court, and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/6bf623038da94f6ba74d71761f0cf665">a judge blocked them from going into effect</a>. The judge found the Trump administration did not follow proper procedures for issuing the rules. An&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/bc40afa1e7614a979b56926a80c06192">appeals court agreed</a>, and the administration appealed to the Supreme Court to step in, as did the Little Sisters of the Poor. The order of Roman Catholic nuns had been instrumental in challenging the Obama administration rules.But on Wednesday, Justice Sonia Sotomayor questioned why the Little Sisters of the Poor were even at the court because for a number of reasons they don’t have to provide contraceptive coverage. Sotomayor also referenced the coronavirus pandemic during her questioning, asking attorney Paul Clement, who was representing the nuns, whether an employer might be able to object to paying for a coronavirus vaccine. He said “no.”Even though the Trump rules remain blocked, a ruling by a federal judge in Texas in June already allows most people who object to covering contraception to avoid doing so.In the second case the justices heard Wednesday, political consultants and pollsters were among those asking the Supreme Court to strike down a federal law from 1991 that bars them from making robocalls to cellphones. The case only arose after Congress in 2015 created an exception in the law that allows the automated calls for collection of government debt.The court wrestled with whether it could get rid of just the government-debt restriction or would have to invalidate the entire ban on cellphone robocalls. “No one wants robocalls on their cellphone,” Roberts said, though he typically votes for the challengers in free-speech cases.The argument provided a light moment of the day when Justice Stephen Breyer got cut off when someone tried calling him. Breyer said after he rejoined the court’s arguments: “The telephone started to ring, and it cut me off the call and I don’t think it was a robocall.”

🎤Justices wary of 'Obamacare' birth control coverage changes

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two Kansas teen for alleged auto theft

Just after 10:30p.m. May 3, the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a theft of a vehicle in the 3700 block of SE Howard Drive, according to Sgt. Todd Stallbaumer.

Just after 1a.m. on Monday, a deputy located a Toyota Camry that matched the description of the stolen vehicle traveling near NW Lyman Rd and NW Tyler Street in Topeka.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The deputy attempted to conduct a traffic stop but the vehicle fled south on NW Tyler and crashed in the front yard of residence in the 1500 block of NW Polk Street.&nbsp;

Police arrested Bryce C. Walker, 16, of Topeka, on requested&nbsp; charges of Possession of stolen property, Flee and elude, Reckless driving, Possession of marijuana, Possession of paraphernalia,&nbsp;No Driver’s License and Other traffic violations

Another juvenile fled from the vehicle.&nbsp; On Tuesday, Police located Denver A. Durosette, 16, of Topeka, in the 3600 block of SE 27th&nbsp;Street.&nbsp; Durosette, who was also listed as a runaway, was transported to the Shawnee County Juvenile Department of Corrections on a requested charge of Felony Theft.

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two Kansas teen for alleged auto theftJust after 10:30p.m. May 3, the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a theft of a vehicle in the 3700 block of SE Howard Drive, according to Sgt. Todd Stallbaumer.Just after 1a.m. on Monday, a deputy located a Toyota Camry that matched the description of the stolen vehicle traveling near NW Lyman Rd and NW Tyler Street in Topeka.&nbsp;&nbsp;The deputy attempted to conduct a traffic stop but the vehicle fled south on NW Tyler and crashed in the front yard of residence in the 1500 block of NW Polk Street.&nbsp;Police arrested Bryce C. Walker, 16, of Topeka, on requested&nbsp; charges of Possession of stolen property, Flee and elude, Reckless driving, Possession of marijuana, Possession of paraphernalia,&nbsp;No Driver’s License and Other traffic violationsAnother juvenile fled from the vehicle.&nbsp; On Tuesday, Police located Denver A. Durosette, 16, of Topeka, in the 3600 block of SE 27th&nbsp;Street.&nbsp; Durosette, who was also listed as a runaway, was transported to the Shawnee County Juvenile Department of Corrections on a requested charge of Felony Theft.

Two 16-year-olds jailed for alleged Kan. auto theft

TOPEKA, Kansas – Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC) Secretary Jeff Zmuda announced Wednesday that one staff member working at the Wichita Work Release Facility (WWRF) tested positive for COVID-19. 

A resident first tested positive on April 12 at WWRF. There are seven KDOC facilities with a confirmed case including Lansing Correctional Facility (LCF, WWRF, Topeka Correctional Facility, Kansas Juvenile Correctional Complex, El Dorado Correctional Facility, Ellsworth Correctional Facility and Hutchinson Correctional Facility.

The staff member is a male over the age of 40. In order to protect the identity of the staff member, no other information will be released.

The KDOC has been in consultation with officials from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) on next steps to address these circumstances. As a result of that consultation with KDHE, the following steps are being implemented immediately:

“Our staff work hard every day to ensure the health and safety of themselves, their loved ones and those within our care,” Zmuda said. “We’re thankful when our staff recognize symptoms quickly, they seek appropriate medical care.”

The Wichita Work Release Facility, a satellite unit of the Winfield Correctional Facility, is an all-male, minimum-custody state prison with a population of 248 prior to the pandemic and a new temporary population of 175.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588803687184.png" alt="Wichita Work Release Facility-<a href="https://www.kwch.com/content/news/Staff-member-at-Wichita-Work-Release-Facility-tests-positive-for-COVID-19-570252801.html">photo courtesy KWCH</a>" />
 <figcaption>Wichita Work Release Facility-<a href="https://www.kwch.com/content/news/Staff-member-at-Wichita-Work-Release-Facility-tests-positive-for-COVID-19-570252801.html">photo courtesy KWCH</a></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kansas – Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC) Secretary Jeff Zmuda announced Wednesday that one staff member working at the Wichita Work Release Facility (WWRF) tested positive for COVID-19. A resident first tested positive on April 12 at WWRF. There are seven KDOC facilities with a confirmed case including Lansing Correctional Facility (LCF, WWRF, Topeka Correctional Facility, Kansas Juvenile Correctional Complex, El Dorado Correctional Facility, Ellsworth Correctional Facility and Hutchinson Correctional Facility.The staff member is a male over the age of 40. In order to protect the identity of the staff member, no other information will be released.The KDOC has been in consultation with officials from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) on next steps to address these circumstances. As a result of that consultation with KDHE, the following steps are being implemented immediately:<ol>
 <li>KDHE conducted contact tracing to determine who among our staff and residents have been in close contact with this individual</li><li>The Sedgwick County Health Department conducted contact tracing to identify anyone outside of WWRF who may have been in close contact with this individual and will notify those persons</li><li>KDOC will remain diligent in monitoring other staff and residents for symptoms</li>
 </ol>“Our staff work hard every day to ensure the health and safety of themselves, their loved ones and those within our care,” Zmuda said. “We’re thankful when our staff recognize symptoms quickly, they seek appropriate medical care.”The Wichita Work Release Facility, a satellite unit of the Winfield Correctional Facility, is an all-male, minimum-custody state prison with a population of 248 prior to the pandemic and a new temporary population of 175.

Staffer at Kan. work release facility confirmed with COVID-19

Governor Laura Kelly held her first press briefing since April 28 Wednesday afternoon. It is also the first since she announced her <a href="http://Reopen-Kansas-Framework-043020.pdf">Ad Astra Plan </a>to reopen Kansas.

She and Dr. Lee Norman, Secretary of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment,  discuss the latest updates regarding COVID-19.  &nbsp;

Statewide, confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas rose Wednesday by 276, up to 5,734 total, though the actual number is thought to be higher because of limited testing and because people can be infected without showing symptoms. Reported COVID-19-related deaths increased by seven to 144.

Governor Laura Kelly held her first press briefing since April 28 Wednesday afternoon. It is also the first since she announced her <a href="http://Reopen-Kansas-Framework-043020.pdf">Ad Astra Plan </a>to reopen Kansas.She and Dr. Lee Norman, Secretary of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment,  discuss the latest updates regarding COVID-19.  &nbsp;<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FGovLauraKelly%2Fvideos%2F1725820937571603%2F&show_text=0&width=560" width="560" height="315" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Statewide, confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas rose Wednesday by 276, up to 5,734 total, though the actual number is thought to be higher because of limited testing and because people can be infected without showing symptoms. Reported COVID-19-related deaths increased by seven to 144.

🎥  Gov. holds first COVID-19 press briefing in over a week

Total nonfarm employment for the state of Kansas increased by almost 
8,000 workers in 2019, growing 0.5 percent.&nbsp; For 2020, the Kansas 
economy is projected to contract substantially due to the impact of the 
novel coronavirus, with the effects of the virus on the economy expected
 to linger on beyond the end of the state’s stay-at-home order as social
 distancing continues.&nbsp; US gross domestic product declined 4.8 percent 
in the first quarter of 2020 as the first effects of the novel 
coronavirus were felt in March, and the effects are expected to be much 
larger through the remainder of the year.

In 2020, Kansas employment is forecast to decline 10.2 percent, 
contracting at an annual rate of more than 140,000 jobs compared to 
2019.&nbsp; The job losses are expected to be concentrated in the second 
quarter, following by an employment recovery in the third and fourth 
quarters of the year.&nbsp; These projections are based on the assumptions 
that the novel coronavirus infections peaks in the second quarter of 
2020 at a level manageable for the local health care system, and that 
additional stay-at-home orders are not required to combat the virus 
after the initial stay-at-home orders expire in May.&nbsp; Additional 
outbreaks and stay-at-home orders would further reduce the employment 
outlook beyond what is presented here.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588786863417.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CEDBRTotal nonfarm employment for the state of Kansas increased by almost 
8,000 workers in 2019, growing 0.5 percent.&nbsp; For 2020, the Kansas 
economy is projected to contract substantially due to the impact of the 
novel coronavirus, with the effects of the virus on the economy expected
 to linger on beyond the end of the state’s stay-at-home order as social
 distancing continues.&nbsp; US gross domestic product declined 4.8 percent 
in the first quarter of 2020 as the first effects of the novel 
coronavirus were felt in March, and the effects are expected to be much 
larger through the remainder of the year.In 2020, Kansas employment is forecast to decline 10.2 percent, 
contracting at an annual rate of more than 140,000 jobs compared to 
2019.&nbsp; The job losses are expected to be concentrated in the second 
quarter, following by an employment recovery in the third and fourth 
quarters of the year.&nbsp; These projections are based on the assumptions 
that the novel coronavirus infections peaks in the second quarter of 
2020 at a level manageable for the local health care system, and that 
additional stay-at-home orders are not required to combat the virus 
after the initial stay-at-home orders expire in May.&nbsp; Additional 
outbreaks and stay-at-home orders would further reduce the employment 
outlook beyond what is presented here.<ol>
 <li>The goods-producing are projected to decline by 14.7 percent, with 
job losses concentrated in the durable goods sector.&nbsp; With substantial 
increases in unemployment and economic uncertainty, durable goods 
purchases are likely to decrease sharply, with a projected employment 
decline in the durable goods sector of 23.5 percent, a loss of more than
 23,000 jobs.&nbsp; The nondurable goods and construction sectors are 
projected to be less strongly affected, but are still expected to 
decline 6.7 and 9.8 percent, respectively.</li><li>The trade, transportation, and utilities sector is forecast to 
experience an employment contraction of 13.3 percent, primarily focused 
in the retail trade sector.&nbsp; Retail sales are forecast to decline 
substantially by more than 20 percent as residents limit travel and 
non-essential purchases, which is expected to lead to a retail trade 
employment of 17.8 percent.&nbsp; The wholesale trade sector and the 
transportation and utilities sector are expected to decline 7.4 and 8.8 
percent, respectively, as the declines in retail spending reverberate 
throughout the supply chain.</li><li>The service sectors are forecast to decline 10.4 percent, with the 
largest contraction in the leisure and hospitality sector.&nbsp; Employment 
in the leisure and hospitality sector is projected to decline 27.1 
percent with an uncertain future about when full-service restaurants, 
bars and recreational businesses can begin operating again even in a 
limited capacity.&nbsp; The other services sector, which includes repair 
shops, barber shops, and religious organizations, is projected to 
decline 11.8 percent.&nbsp; Financial activities, professional and business 
services, and education and health services are forecast to be less 
affected by the downturn, with employment losses ranging from 4.9 to 6.4
 percent.</li><li>The government sector is expected to decline 2.2 percent, the least
 affected of any industry sector.&nbsp; The job losses are projected to be 
concentrated in the local government sector, but no government sector is
 expected to increase employment in 2020.</li>
 </ol><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588786926184.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Study: Worst of jobless picture to come, recovery in 3Q-4Q

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 276 to a total of 5734, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional numbers from the KDHE

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 276 to a total of 5734, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;Coronavirus deaths were reported at 144<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional numbers from the KDHE<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588785993293.png" alt="May 6, 2020 -image KDHE" />
 <figcaption>May 6, 2020 -image KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: Latest coronavirus numbers in Kansas

MISSION, Kan. (AP) — Taiwan is donating 100,000 surgical masks to Kansas to help medical and meat packing workers amid the coronavirus outbreak.

U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, a Kansas Republican, announced Wednesday that the shipment of masks is expected to arrive next week.

The move comes as Taiwan seeks to be&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/6c7345b5b3bebb139602e746bf0e6fbd">included</a>&nbsp;in the upcoming World Health Assembly. Moran, who requested the masks, has been supportive of including Taiwan. He thanked the country’s President Tsai Ing-wen in a statement, saying it is “another great reminder that we are all in this together.”

Four counties with meat packing plants — Seward, Ford, Finney and Lyon — have a combined 2,258 confirmed cases, 41% of the state’s total. And an outbreak at the state’s largest prison in Lansing has now infected 551 inmates and 88 staff members. Most of the infected inmates don’t have symptoms.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588782922468.png" alt="Photo courtesy Taiwan Economic and Cultural Office" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Taiwan Economic and Cultural Office</figcaption>
 </figure>MISSION, Kan. (AP) — Taiwan is donating 100,000 surgical masks to Kansas to help medical and meat packing workers amid the coronavirus outbreak.U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, a Kansas Republican, announced Wednesday that the shipment of masks is expected to arrive next week.The move comes as Taiwan seeks to be&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/6c7345b5b3bebb139602e746bf0e6fbd">included</a>&nbsp;in the upcoming World Health Assembly. Moran, who requested the masks, has been supportive of including Taiwan. He thanked the country’s President Tsai Ing-wen in a statement, saying it is “another great reminder that we are all in this together.”Statewide, confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas rose Wednesday by 276, up to 5,734 total, though the actual number is thought to be higher because of limited testing and because people can be infected without showing symptoms. Reported COVID-19-related deaths increased by seven to 144.Four counties with meat packing plants — Seward, Ford, Finney and Lyon — have a combined 2,258 confirmed cases, 41% of the state’s total. And an outbreak at the state’s largest prison in Lansing has now infected 551 inmates and 88 staff members. Most of the infected inmates don’t have symptoms.

Moran confirms donation of 100K surgical masks for Kansas

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Team McConnell and Wichita’s own B-29 Superfortress “Doc,” flew over local communities and hospitals Wednesday morning to salute first responders, military members and essential personnel who are working on the frontlines of the coronavirus pandemic.

Team McConnell (McConnell Air Force Base, Wichita) led the flyover with two KC-135 Stratotankers, followed by a KC-46 Pegasus tanker and then B-29 Doc. 

The flight path brought the aircraft over Wichita, Derby, Newton, Andover, Garden Plain, Haysville and El Dorado, including 11 local hospitals. The flyover will last approximately one hour.

“Team McConnell takes great pride in being part of this community,” said Col. Richard Tanner, 22nd Air Refueling Wing commander. “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to show our appreciation and solidarity to the thousands of heroes who are working tirelessly to battle COVID-19.”

The flyover salute is a total force effort between the 22nd ARW, the Air Force Reserve 931st Air Refueling Wing and the Kansas Air National Guard 184th Wing, all located on McConnell Air Force Base.

The flight also symbolizes more than 70 years of aviation in the air capital of the world, featuring the Air Force’s newest tanker and the World War II heavy bomber.

“We are humbled and honored to join our nation’s warfighters at McConnell Air Force Base and be a part of Operation American Strong to salute those who have been battling the virus on the front lines, as well as to recognize those essential workers who have been keeping the grocery store shelves stocked, making deliveries and keeping our communities going during the pandemic,” said Josh Wells, Doc’s Friends, Inc., executive director and general manager.

In a press release, McConnell Air Force Base leadership says the Air Force has extensively planned and implemented measures to ensure the force and individual units remain ready to carry out their respective missions. Air Force flyovers are conducted at no additional cost to the taxpayer and serve as training for pilots.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588767789831.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Team McConnell and Wichita’s own B-29 Superfortress “Doc,” flew over local communities and hospitals Wednesday morning to salute first responders, military members and essential personnel who are working on the frontlines of the coronavirus pandemic.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Hello, Newton! <a href="https://t.co/ZNfjYQLKuR">pic.twitter.com/ZNfjYQLKuR</a>&mdash; B-29 DOC (@DocsFriends) <a href="https://twitter.com/DocsFriends/status/1258055822967476226?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Team McConnell (McConnell Air Force Base, Wichita) led the flyover with two KC-135 Stratotankers, followed by a KC-46 Pegasus tanker and then B-29 Doc. The flight path brought the aircraft over Wichita, Derby, Newton, Andover, Garden Plain, Haysville and El Dorado, including 11 local hospitals. The flyover will last approximately one hour.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Thanks, McConnell Air Force Base, for passing through this morning to thank all the first responders, health care workers and essential workers for their dedication and perseverance against COVID-19. There are countless people doing incredible work right now. Very cool! <a href="https://t.co/A4tyVX5h0c">pic.twitter.com/A4tyVX5h0c</a>&mdash; HarveyCountyKS (@HarveyCountyKS) <a href="https://twitter.com/HarveyCountyKS/status/1258062177484836867?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“Team McConnell takes great pride in being part of this community,” said Col. Richard Tanner, 22nd Air Refueling Wing commander. “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to show our appreciation and solidarity to the thousands of heroes who are working tirelessly to battle COVID-19.”The flyover salute is a total force effort between the 22nd ARW, the Air Force Reserve 931st Air Refueling Wing and the Kansas Air National Guard 184th Wing, all located on McConnell Air Force Base.The flight also symbolizes more than 70 years of aviation in the air capital of the world, featuring the Air Force’s newest tanker and the World War II heavy bomber.“We are humbled and honored to join our nation’s warfighters at McConnell Air Force Base and be a part of Operation American Strong to salute those who have been battling the virus on the front lines, as well as to recognize those essential workers who have been keeping the grocery store shelves stocked, making deliveries and keeping our communities going during the pandemic,” said Josh Wells, Doc’s Friends, Inc., executive director and general manager.In a press release, McConnell Air Force Base leadership says the Air Force has extensively planned and implemented measures to ensure the force and individual units remain ready to carry out their respective missions. Air Force flyovers are conducted at no additional cost to the taxpayer and serve as training for pilots.

Flyover salutes Kan. community, frontline COVID-19 responders

BALTIMORE (AP) — U.S. businesses cut an unprecedented 20.2 million jobs in April, an epic collapse with coronavirus outbreak closing the offices, factories, schools, construction sites and stores that propel the U.S. economy.

The Wednesday report from payroll company ADP showed the tragic depth and scale of job losses that left no part of the world’s largest economy unscathed. The losses will likely continue through May, with a recovery in hiring likely to begin in the months that follow, said Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moody’s Analytics.

“This is one for the record books,” Zandi said. ”The good news is that we’re at the apex of the job loss.”

Even though Zandi expects hiring to resume in June as states ease lockdowns, he cautioned that it will be a “slog” over several years to recover all the jobs lost in April.

The private industry report comes two days ahead of the official monthly job figures from the U.S. Labor Department. Economists believe the Friday report will reveal unemployment in the U.S. stands at a shocking 16%, up from 4.4% in March.

According to ADP, the leisure and hospitality sector shed 8.6 million workers last month. Trade, transportation and utilities let 3.4 million people go. Construction firms cut nearly 2.5 million jobs, while manufacturers let go of roughly 1.7 million people. The health care sector cut 1 million jobs, but education services eked out a gain of 28,000 as colleges and universities do not appear to have forced significant layoffs that could come later this year.

More than half of April’s job losses came from smaller companies with 500 workers or fewer. But larger employers cut 8.9 million jobs. Polling by The Associated Press and NORC Center for Public Affairs Research indicates that nearly eight in 10 households that suffered job losses expect to return to their previous employer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586986967714.png" alt="This closed thrift store is one of thousands of business shuttered across Kansas, closings that have overwhelmed the state's unemployment benefits system. Jim McLean photo" />
 <figcaption>This closed thrift store is one of thousands of business shuttered across Kansas, closings that have overwhelmed the state's unemployment benefits system. Jim McLean photo</figcaption>
 </figure>BALTIMORE (AP) — U.S. businesses cut an unprecedented 20.2 million jobs in April, an epic collapse with coronavirus outbreak closing the offices, factories, schools, construction sites and stores that propel the U.S. economy.The Wednesday report from payroll company ADP showed the tragic depth and scale of job losses that left no part of the world’s largest economy unscathed. The losses will likely continue through May, with a recovery in hiring likely to begin in the months that follow, said Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moody’s Analytics.“This is one for the record books,” Zandi said. ”The good news is that we’re at the apex of the job loss.”Even though Zandi expects hiring to resume in June as states ease lockdowns, he cautioned that it will be a “slog” over several years to recover all the jobs lost in April.The private industry report comes two days ahead of the official monthly job figures from the U.S. Labor Department. Economists believe the Friday report will reveal unemployment in the U.S. stands at a shocking 16%, up from 4.4% in March.According to ADP, the leisure and hospitality sector shed 8.6 million workers last month. Trade, transportation and utilities let 3.4 million people go. Construction firms cut nearly 2.5 million jobs, while manufacturers let go of roughly 1.7 million people. The health care sector cut 1 million jobs, but education services eked out a gain of 28,000 as colleges and universities do not appear to have forced significant layoffs that could come later this year.More than half of April’s job losses came from smaller companies with 500 workers or fewer. But larger employers cut 8.9 million jobs. Polling by The Associated Press and NORC Center for Public Affairs Research indicates that nearly eight in 10 households that suffered job losses expect to return to their previous employer.

Report: More than 20 million jobs vanished in April

SMITH CENTER&nbsp; – A judge has ordered a Kansas woman convicted of insurance fraud to serve 45 days in jail after granting the state’s motion to correct an earlier illegal sentence of only probation, according to Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt.

On February 5, following a bench trial in Smith County District Court, Trisha A. Wiehl, 40, Smith Center, was found guilty of 57 charges – one count of insurance fraud, four counts of theft, 35 counts of making false information, eight counts of insurance agent or broker failing to pay premium to company, six counts of forgery, and three counts of false impersonation. At sentencing, the state requested Wiehl be imprisoned. The court rejected the request and sentenced her to pay a $3,000 fine and serve 36 months’ probation.

On February 25, Schmidt filed a motion to correct illegal sentence, arguing that because Wiehl was convicted on six counts of forgery, a special provision in Kansas law requires her to serve a minimum of 45 days’ imprisonment before release on probation. Chief Judge Preston Pratt yesterday granted the attorney general’s motion and ordered Wiehl to serve 45 days in the Smith County jail. Based on his findings, Judge Pratt also increased Wiehl’s fine amount to $11,500 from $3,000. Wiehl’s 36-month probation term will continue after her release from jail.

Because of restrictions on court operations related to the COVID-19 pandemic, yesterday’s hearing on the attorney general’s motion was publicly live-streamed over the internet with all parties appearing by way of an electronic group meeting software. All parties agreed to the proceeding being conducted in this manner. &nbsp;

SMITH CENTER&nbsp; – A judge has ordered a Kansas woman convicted of insurance fraud to serve 45 days in jail after granting the state’s motion to correct an earlier illegal sentence of only probation, according to Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt.On February 5, following a bench trial in Smith County District Court, Trisha A. Wiehl, 40, Smith Center, was found guilty of 57 charges – one count of insurance fraud, four counts of theft, 35 counts of making false information, eight counts of insurance agent or broker failing to pay premium to company, six counts of forgery, and three counts of false impersonation. At sentencing, the state requested Wiehl be imprisoned. The court rejected the request and sentenced her to pay a $3,000 fine and serve 36 months’ probation.On February 25, Schmidt filed a motion to correct illegal sentence, arguing that because Wiehl was convicted on six counts of forgery, a special provision in Kansas law requires her to serve a minimum of 45 days’ imprisonment before release on probation. Chief Judge Preston Pratt yesterday granted the attorney general’s motion and ordered Wiehl to serve 45 days in the Smith County jail. Based on his findings, Judge Pratt also increased Wiehl’s fine amount to $11,500 from $3,000. Wiehl’s 36-month probation term will continue after her release from jail.Because of restrictions on court operations related to the COVID-19 pandemic, yesterday’s hearing on the attorney general’s motion was publicly live-streamed over the internet with all parties appearing by way of an electronic group meeting software. All parties agreed to the proceeding being conducted in this manner. &nbsp;

Kansas woman sentenced for insurance fraud

NEW YORK (AP) — Had there been no coronavirus pandemic, America’s largest mainline Protestant denomination would be convening this week for a likely vote to break up over differences on same-sex marriage and ordination of LGBTQ pastors.

Instead, the United Methodist Church was forced to postpone the potentially momentous conference, leaving its various factions in limbo for perhaps 16 more months. The deep doctrinal differences seem irreconcilable, but for now there’s agreement that response to the pandemic takes priority.

“The people who are really in trauma right now cannot pay the price of our differences,” said Kenneth Carter, the Florida-based president of the UMC’s Council of Bishops. “What is in our minds and hearts is responding to death, illness, grief, loss of work.”

The conference was to have taken place at the Minneapolis Convention Center starting Tuesday, running through May 15. Instead, bishops are proposing to hold it there Aug. 31-Sept. 10 of next year.

The differences have simmered for years, and came to a head in February 2019 at a conference in St. Louis where delegates voted 438-384 for a proposal strengthening bans on LGBTQ-inclusive practices. Most U.S.-based delegates opposed that plan and favored LGBTQ-friendly options; they were outvoted by U.S. conservatives teamed with most of the delegates from Methodist strongholds in Africa and the Philippines.

In the aftermath of that meeting, many moderate and liberal clergy made clear they would not abide by the bans, and various groups worked throughout 2019 on proposals to let the UMC split along theological lines.

There have been at least four different proposals for how to implement a split.

The most widely discussed plan has a long name -- the Protocol of Reconciliation &amp; Grace Through Separation -- and some high-level support.

It was negotiated by 16 bishops and advocacy group leaders with differing views on LGBTQ inclusion. They were assisted by renowned mediator Kenneth Feinberg, who administered victim compensation funds stemming from the 9/11 attacks and the 2010 oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.

Under the protocol, conservative congregations and regional bodies would be allowed to separate from the UMC and form a new denomination. They would receive $25 million in UMC funds and be able to keep their properties.

Formed in a merger in 1968, the UMC claims about 12.6 million members worldwide, including nearly 7 million in the United States. Leaders of the various factions have avoided making predictions of how many members might leave for a new denomination.

In hopes of minimizing friction, the protocol calls for a moratorium on enforcement of bans related to LGBTQ issues. Most bishops seem comfortable with that proposal, although Virginia-based Bishop Sharma Lewis approved initial disciplinary proceedings against a pastor in her region who officiated at a same-sex marriage.

There have been tangible benefits for one of the protocol negotiators, the Rev. David Meredith, who entered into a same-sex marriage with his long-time partner while serving as a pastor in Cincinnati.

The bishop of Meredith’s West Ohio region, Gregory Palmer, also served on the protocol team and endorsed the moratorium that freezes ongoing judicial proceedings against Meredith.

“Everything that has been a threat is now in a drawer collecting dust,” Meredith said.

Some conservatives worry that further flouting of the bans will occur ahead of the rescheduled national conference.

“For any clergy to try to use this interim to willfully violate their own vows … would demonstrate an extreme lack of integrity and self-control,” said John Lomperis, who works with the conservative Institute on Religion &amp; Democracy and will be a delegate at next year’s conference.

Lomperis is among a faction of UMC conservatives, now eager to form a new denomination, who worry that bishops supporting LGBTQ inclusion will use the delay to tilt outcomes in their favor during decision-making by regional bodies.

The Rev. Tom Lambrecht, general manager of the conservative Methodist magazine Good News, said he and his allies have heard of instances where liberal pastors were appointed to lead conservative congregations and where small conservative churches were closed.

“We will be vigilant to call out such behavior after the coronavirus crisis passes,” Lambrecht said via email.

Some conservatives complain that the proposed $25 million payment to a new traditionalist denomination is unfairly small.

But the Rev. Tom Berlin of Herndon, Virginia, a supporter of LGBTQ inclusion who served on the protocol team, says the proposal is generous in allowing departing churches to keep their property.

“The majority of the wealth in the UMC is found in the real estate and bank accounts of the local churches,” he said. “The protocol allows them to retain that.”

Berlin says debate over LGBTQ policies “is on the back burner for now.”

“Once we get out of this, we’ll get back to the future of the UMC,” he said. “But now, churches of all varieties are working to respond to this pandemic in positive ways.”

Support for the protocol is far from unanimous, though its backers predict it will win majority support next year. One dissenting faction, known as the “liberationists,” believes the proposal doesn’t go far enough in curbing racism, sexism and anti-LGBTQ sentiment within the UMC.

A leaders of that faction, the Rev. Jay Williams of Union Church in Boston, hopes local churches will use the coming year to “innovate and adapt” without awaiting top-down directives.

“I hope that we might claim this moment as an opportunity to courageously confront the systemic oppressions that have plagued our denomination since its beginning,” he said via email.

When the conference does convene, the African delegates will be a key voting bloc. In St. Louis, they were pivotal in approving the strengthened bans on LGBTQ-inclusive practices.

The Rev. Keith Boyette, president of the conservative Wesleyan Covenant Association and one of the protocol negotiators, has met with many African delegates. He says they have pledged support for the protocol, but want some changes – for example, giving them the option of retaining the words “United Methodist” in the name of whatever new traditionalist body they join.

Bishop John Yambasu of Sierra Leone, the lone African among the protocol negotiators, said the proposal was “by no means perfect” but seemed to be the most acceptable option.

In an email, he depicted the pandemic as “a holy call to action from God.... to make make Christian disciples for the transformation of the world.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578095074490.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — Had there been no coronavirus pandemic, America’s largest mainline Protestant denomination would be convening this week for a likely vote to break up over differences on same-sex marriage and ordination of LGBTQ pastors.Instead, the United Methodist Church was forced to postpone the potentially momentous conference, leaving its various factions in limbo for perhaps 16 more months. The deep doctrinal differences seem irreconcilable, but for now there’s agreement that response to the pandemic takes priority.“The people who are really in trauma right now cannot pay the price of our differences,” said Kenneth Carter, the Florida-based president of the UMC’s Council of Bishops. “What is in our minds and hearts is responding to death, illness, grief, loss of work.”The conference was to have taken place at the Minneapolis Convention Center starting Tuesday, running through May 15. Instead, bishops are proposing to hold it there Aug. 31-Sept. 10 of next year.The differences have simmered for years, and came to a head in February 2019 at a conference in St. Louis where delegates voted 438-384 for a proposal strengthening bans on LGBTQ-inclusive practices. Most U.S.-based delegates opposed that plan and favored LGBTQ-friendly options; they were outvoted by U.S. conservatives teamed with most of the delegates from Methodist strongholds in Africa and the Philippines.In the aftermath of that meeting, many moderate and liberal clergy made clear they would not abide by the bans, and various groups worked throughout 2019 on proposals to let the UMC split along theological lines.There have been at least four different proposals for how to implement a split.The most widely discussed plan has a long name -- the Protocol of Reconciliation &amp; Grace Through Separation -- and some high-level support.It was negotiated by 16 bishops and advocacy group leaders with differing views on LGBTQ inclusion. They were assisted by renowned mediator Kenneth Feinberg, who administered victim compensation funds stemming from the 9/11 attacks and the 2010 oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.Under the protocol, conservative congregations and regional bodies would be allowed to separate from the UMC and form a new denomination. They would receive $25 million in UMC funds and be able to keep their properties.Formed in a merger in 1968, the UMC claims about 12.6 million members worldwide, including nearly 7 million in the United States. Leaders of the various factions have avoided making predictions of how many members might leave for a new denomination.In hopes of minimizing friction, the protocol calls for a moratorium on enforcement of bans related to LGBTQ issues. Most bishops seem comfortable with that proposal, although Virginia-based Bishop Sharma Lewis approved initial disciplinary proceedings against a pastor in her region who officiated at a same-sex marriage.There have been tangible benefits for one of the protocol negotiators, the Rev. David Meredith, who entered into a same-sex marriage with his long-time partner while serving as a pastor in Cincinnati.The bishop of Meredith’s West Ohio region, Gregory Palmer, also served on the protocol team and endorsed the moratorium that freezes ongoing judicial proceedings against Meredith.“Everything that has been a threat is now in a drawer collecting dust,” Meredith said.Some conservatives worry that further flouting of the bans will occur ahead of the rescheduled national conference.“For any clergy to try to use this interim to willfully violate their own vows … would demonstrate an extreme lack of integrity and self-control,” said John Lomperis, who works with the conservative Institute on Religion &amp; Democracy and will be a delegate at next year’s conference.Lomperis is among a faction of UMC conservatives, now eager to form a new denomination, who worry that bishops supporting LGBTQ inclusion will use the delay to tilt outcomes in their favor during decision-making by regional bodies.The Rev. Tom Lambrecht, general manager of the conservative Methodist magazine Good News, said he and his allies have heard of instances where liberal pastors were appointed to lead conservative congregations and where small conservative churches were closed.“We will be vigilant to call out such behavior after the coronavirus crisis passes,” Lambrecht said via email.Some conservatives complain that the proposed $25 million payment to a new traditionalist denomination is unfairly small.But the Rev. Tom Berlin of Herndon, Virginia, a supporter of LGBTQ inclusion who served on the protocol team, says the proposal is generous in allowing departing churches to keep their property.“The majority of the wealth in the UMC is found in the real estate and bank accounts of the local churches,” he said. “The protocol allows them to retain that.”Berlin says debate over LGBTQ policies “is on the back burner for now.”“Once we get out of this, we’ll get back to the future of the UMC,” he said. “But now, churches of all varieties are working to respond to this pandemic in positive ways.”Support for the protocol is far from unanimous, though its backers predict it will win majority support next year. One dissenting faction, known as the “liberationists,” believes the proposal doesn’t go far enough in curbing racism, sexism and anti-LGBTQ sentiment within the UMC.A leaders of that faction, the Rev. Jay Williams of Union Church in Boston, hopes local churches will use the coming year to “innovate and adapt” without awaiting top-down directives.“I hope that we might claim this moment as an opportunity to courageously confront the systemic oppressions that have plagued our denomination since its beginning,” he said via email.When the conference does convene, the African delegates will be a key voting bloc. In St. Louis, they were pivotal in approving the strengthened bans on LGBTQ-inclusive practices.The Rev. Keith Boyette, president of the conservative Wesleyan Covenant Association and one of the protocol negotiators, has met with many African delegates. He says they have pledged support for the protocol, but want some changes – for example, giving them the option of retaining the words “United Methodist” in the name of whatever new traditionalist body they join.Bishop John Yambasu of Sierra Leone, the lone African among the protocol negotiators, said the proposal was “by no means perfect” but seemed to be the most acceptable option.In an email, he depicted the pandemic as “a holy call to action from God.... to make make Christian disciples for the transformation of the world.”

Split over gay marriage delayed, United Methodists in limbo

KANSAS CITY (AP) — An officer from a Kansas City suburb shot and killed a burglary suspect he chased into Kansas City, police there said.

Kansas City police said in a news release that the shooting happened shortly after 10 p.m. Tuesday, when an Independence police officer chased a suspect’s car into eastern Kansas City. The suspect stopped his car near the Central High School campus and got out, police said, and a short foot chase ensued before the Independence officer fired his gun, hitting the suspect.

The man died at the scene. Police have not released his man or identified the officer. A gun was found at the scene of the shooting, police said, but investigators have not said whether it had been in the suspect’s possession before he was shot.

Kansas City police are investigating the shooting.

KANSAS CITY (AP) — An officer from a Kansas City suburb shot and killed a burglary suspect he chased into Kansas City, police there said.Kansas City police said in a news release that the shooting happened shortly after 10 p.m. Tuesday, when an Independence police officer chased a suspect’s car into eastern Kansas City. The suspect stopped his car near the Central High School campus and got out, police said, and a short foot chase ensued before the Independence officer fired his gun, hitting the suspect.The man died at the scene. Police have not released his man or identified the officer. A gun was found at the scene of the shooting, police said, but investigators have not said whether it had been in the suspect’s possession before he was shot.Kansas City police are investigating the shooting.

Suburban KC officer fatally shoots burglary suspect

TOPEKA – A Kansas man facing a civil lawsuit over his autopsy services has now been temporarily banned by court order from offering services related to COVID-19 while the lawsuit is pending, according to Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt.

Shawn Parcells, 37, of Leawood, and his affiliated companies have been banned for more than a year from conducting autopsies, forensic pathology and tissue recovery in the State of Kansas under a temporary restraining order in a civil lawsuit the attorney general filed in Shawnee County District Court in March 2019. The underlying lawsuit alleges violations of the Kansas Consumer Protection Act and the Kansas False Claims Act, and it remains in litigation. The new order granted today by District Judge Mary E. Christopher extends the existing restraining order to prohibit the defendants from, among other things:

The expanded restraining order was requested by the attorney general’s office. During a telephone hearing last week, the court found that Parcells had formed new businesses and websites, including social media, that offered consulting services for coronavirus and COVID-19, which amounted to deceptive or unconscionable misrepresentations in violation of the Kansas Consumer Protection Act. Parcells was offering to enter homes and businesses, perform swabs for purported coronavirus testing and examine deceased persons to determine if they were positive for COVID-19. Parcells was quoted in media reports stating he had been contacted by two families in New York for COVID-19 testing on deceased family.

The ongoing civil lawsuit filed by the attorney general alleges 14 violations of the Kansas False Claims Act and violations of the Kansas Consumer Protection Act involving three consumers. The petition alleges Parcells contracted with Wabaunsee County to conduct coroner-ordered autopsies and failed to complete them in accordance with Kansas law. Additionally, the petition alleges he performed autopsies without the presence or supervision of a licensed pathologist.&nbsp;

In addition to expanding the temporary restraining order to cover services and solicitations by Parcells related to COVID-19, today’s order also finds Parcells in contempt of court for violating the existing restraining order. It is the third time during the civil litigation Parcells has been found in contempt of court.

Separate criminal charges filed by the attorney general also remain pending against Parcells in Wabaunsee County District Court. Charges are merely accusations. Individuals are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

A copy of the temporary restraining order granted in the civil case is <a href="https://ag.ks.gov/docs/default-source/documents/parcells-amended-tro.pdf?sfvrsn=ffdeac1a_2">available here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574875994992.png" alt="Shawn Parcells photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Shawn Parcells photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA – A Kansas man facing a civil lawsuit over his autopsy services has now been temporarily banned by court order from offering services related to COVID-19 while the lawsuit is pending, according to Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt.Shawn Parcells, 37, of Leawood, and his affiliated companies have been banned for more than a year from conducting autopsies, forensic pathology and tissue recovery in the State of Kansas under a temporary restraining order in a civil lawsuit the attorney general filed in Shawnee County District Court in March 2019. The underlying lawsuit alleges violations of the Kansas Consumer Protection Act and the Kansas False Claims Act, and it remains in litigation. The new order granted today by District Judge Mary E. Christopher extends the existing restraining order to prohibit the defendants from, among other things:<ol>
 <li>traveling outside the state of Kansas or the Kansas City metro area without approval of the Court;</li><li>offering any services in connection with the human body including but not limited to the healing arts, epidemiology, infectious disease, coronavirus, COVID-19 and any treatment, protocol, diagnosis, medication, opinion, or other recommendation;</li><li>advertising, soliciting, accepting payment for, contracting, performing, or in any manner conducting business or consumer transactions in epidemiology and infectious disease, including coronavirus and COVID-19.</li>
 </ol>The expanded restraining order was requested by the attorney general’s office. During a telephone hearing last week, the court found that Parcells had formed new businesses and websites, including social media, that offered consulting services for coronavirus and COVID-19, which amounted to deceptive or unconscionable misrepresentations in violation of the Kansas Consumer Protection Act. Parcells was offering to enter homes and businesses, perform swabs for purported coronavirus testing and examine deceased persons to determine if they were positive for COVID-19. Parcells was quoted in media reports stating he had been contacted by two families in New York for COVID-19 testing on deceased family.The ongoing civil lawsuit filed by the attorney general alleges 14 violations of the Kansas False Claims Act and violations of the Kansas Consumer Protection Act involving three consumers. The petition alleges Parcells contracted with Wabaunsee County to conduct coroner-ordered autopsies and failed to complete them in accordance with Kansas law. Additionally, the petition alleges he performed autopsies without the presence or supervision of a licensed pathologist.&nbsp;In addition to expanding the temporary restraining order to cover services and solicitations by Parcells related to COVID-19, today’s order also finds Parcells in contempt of court for violating the existing restraining order. It is the third time during the civil litigation Parcells has been found in contempt of court.Separate criminal charges filed by the attorney general also remain pending against Parcells in Wabaunsee County District Court. Charges are merely accusations. Individuals are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.A copy of the temporary restraining order granted in the civil case is <a href="https://ag.ks.gov/docs/default-source/documents/parcells-amended-tro.pdf?sfvrsn=ffdeac1a_2">available here.</a>

Kan. man banned from offering COVID-19-related services

BELLE PLAINE, Kan. (AP) — The attorneys general for 11 Midwestern states urged the Justice Department on Tuesday to pursue a federal investigation into market concentration and potential price fixing by meatpackers in the cattle industry during the coronavirus pandemic.

In a letter to U.S. Attorney General William Barr, the state attorneys general noted that the domestic beef processing market is highly concentrated, with the four largest beef processors controlling 80 percent of the industry.

“Given the concentrated market structure of the beef industry, it may be particularly susceptible to market manipulation, particularly during times of food insecurity, such as the current COVID-19 crisis,”&nbsp;<a href="https://attorneygeneral.nd.gov/sites/ag/files/documents/MediaAttachments/2020-05-05-Barr%2C%20AG%20William.pdf">they wrote.</a>

Although their letter does not name them, the nation's largest processors are Tyson Foods, JBS, Cargill, and National Beef. The companies did not immediately respond to emails seeking comment.

Mark Watne, the president of the North Dakota Farmers Union, said in a statement that in all the years they have called for stronger antitrust enforcement, they have rarely seen such obvious market abuses by the meatpacking industry.

“They’re posting record profits, while ranchers are suffering significant market price losses,” Watne said. “The situation definitely smells rotten, and it not only hurts ranchers, but consumers, too.”

The state officials criticized the disparity in the price of live cattle and the retail cost of boxed beef that is sold to consumers, arguing that it shows the market lacks fair competition. Live cattle futures recently hit 18-year lows, while both the price of boxed beef and consumer demand remain healthy as consumers stockpile meat in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The letter was signed by attorneys general in North Dakota, Missouri, Colorado, South Dakota, Montana, Arizona, Idaho, Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska and Wyoming.

The Justice Department did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment.

The state attorneys general said they are eager to work with Barr on an examination of the competitive dynamics of the industry.

“Antitrust concerns about the cattle market are nothing new. Competition issues arising from agricultural markets existed long before the COVID-19 pandemic and will persist long after we defeat our current crisis,” they wrote.

Although most enforcement actions are civil, federal antitrust law is also criminal law and individuals and businesses that violate it may be prosecuted by the Justice Department, according the Federal Trade Commission.

Criminal penalties can reach up to $100 million for a corporation, along with up to 10 years in prison. The maximum fine may be increased to twice the amount the conspirators gained from the illegal acts or twice the money lost by the victims of the crime, if either of those amounts is over $100 million.

The state attorneys general wrote that if, after an investigation, there is no appropriate enforcement action that can be pursued, regulatory strategies should be explored to promote competition and protect consumers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588259947500.png" alt="Google image" />
 <figcaption>Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>BELLE PLAINE, Kan. (AP) — The attorneys general for 11 Midwestern states urged the Justice Department on Tuesday to pursue a federal investigation into market concentration and potential price fixing by meatpackers in the cattle industry during the coronavirus pandemic.In a letter to U.S. Attorney General William Barr, the state attorneys general noted that the domestic beef processing market is highly concentrated, with the four largest beef processors controlling 80 percent of the industry.“Given the concentrated market structure of the beef industry, it may be particularly susceptible to market manipulation, particularly during times of food insecurity, such as the current COVID-19 crisis,”&nbsp;<a href="https://attorneygeneral.nd.gov/sites/ag/files/documents/MediaAttachments/2020-05-05-Barr%2C%20AG%20William.pdf">they wrote.</a>Although their letter does not name them, the nation's largest processors are Tyson Foods, JBS, Cargill, and National Beef. The companies did not immediately respond to emails seeking comment.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588533087480.png" alt=" Vehicles turn into the Cargill beef-processing plant in Dodge City, Kansas, on April 28.&nbsp; Credit Corinne Boyer / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption> Vehicles turn into the Cargill beef-processing plant in Dodge City, Kansas, on April 28.&nbsp; Credit Corinne Boyer / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>Mark Watne, the president of the North Dakota Farmers Union, said in a statement that in all the years they have called for stronger antitrust enforcement, they have rarely seen such obvious market abuses by the meatpacking industry.“They’re posting record profits, while ranchers are suffering significant market price losses,” Watne said. “The situation definitely smells rotten, and it not only hurts ranchers, but consumers, too.”The state officials criticized the disparity in the price of live cattle and the retail cost of boxed beef that is sold to consumers, arguing that it shows the market lacks fair competition. Live cattle futures recently hit 18-year lows, while both the price of boxed beef and consumer demand remain healthy as consumers stockpile meat in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.The letter was signed by attorneys general in North Dakota, Missouri, Colorado, South Dakota, Montana, Arizona, Idaho, Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska and Wyoming.The Justice Department did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment.The state attorneys general said they are eager to work with Barr on an examination of the competitive dynamics of the industry.“Antitrust concerns about the cattle market are nothing new. Competition issues arising from agricultural markets existed long before the COVID-19 pandemic and will persist long after we defeat our current crisis,” they wrote.Although most enforcement actions are civil, federal antitrust law is also criminal law and individuals and businesses that violate it may be prosecuted by the Justice Department, according the Federal Trade Commission.Criminal penalties can reach up to $100 million for a corporation, along with up to 10 years in prison. The maximum fine may be increased to twice the amount the conspirators gained from the illegal acts or twice the money lost by the victims of the crime, if either of those amounts is over $100 million.The state attorneys general wrote that if, after an investigation, there is no appropriate enforcement action that can be pursued, regulatory strategies should be explored to promote competition and protect consumers.

11 attorneys general seek probe into meatpacking industry

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating three suspects after a Tuesday drug raid.

On Monday, the Shawnee County Drug Enforcement Task Force served a narcotic search warrant in the 3600 Blk of SW Kirklawn, according to Sgt. Todd Stallbaumer.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Deputies and Topeka Police Officers located methamphetamine, marijuana, three firearms, a large quantity of US currency and drug paraphernalia during the search warrant.

They arrested Stephen L. Lester,62, of Topeka was arrested and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections for Possession of Methamphetamine W/Intent to Distribute and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Armando Rangel, 47, of Topeka and Stephanie A. Graham, 42, of Topeka were also booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections for Possession of Methamphetamine.

Kansas (May 5th, 2020): Sheriff Brian C. Hill announces the seizure of methamphetamine, marijuana, paraphernalia, firearms, and US Currency that resulted from the execution of a search warrant on May 4th, 2020.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588761166488.png" alt="Lester photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Lester photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating three suspects after a Tuesday drug raid.On Monday, the Shawnee County Drug Enforcement Task Force served a narcotic search warrant in the 3600 Blk of SW Kirklawn, according to Sgt. Todd Stallbaumer.&nbsp;&nbsp;Deputies and Topeka Police Officers located methamphetamine, marijuana, three firearms, a large quantity of US currency and drug paraphernalia during the search warrant.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588761135785.png" alt="Graham-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Graham-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>They arrested Stephen L. Lester,62, of Topeka was arrested and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections for Possession of Methamphetamine W/Intent to Distribute and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588761213284.png" alt="Rangle-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Rangle-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Armando Rangel, 47, of Topeka and Stephanie A. Graham, 42, of Topeka were also booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections for Possession of Methamphetamine.Kansas (May 5th, 2020): Sheriff Brian C. Hill announces the seizure of methamphetamine, marijuana, paraphernalia, firearms, and US Currency that resulted from the execution of a search warrant on May 4th, 2020.&nbsp;

Deputies seize drugs, guns and cash from Kansas home

The effects of the coronavirus pandemic have moved beyond meat processing plants and are now hitting dinner plates.

Several U.S. production plants have been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/d855667c811d3d9810883e05702288ad">temporarily shuttered</a>&nbsp;in the last two weeks after hundreds of workers were sickened by the virus. That has led to meat shortages, with Wendy’s pulling some burgers off its menus and Costco limiting pork sales. Fake meat companies, meanwhile, are making their moves to capture some of those lost sales.

Beyond Meat, which makes burgers and sausage from pea protein, said Tuesday it’s launching new value packs to entice consumers while rival Impossible Foods is expanding sales to more than 1,700 Kroger groceries.

As of Monday, U.S. beef and pork processing capacity was down 40% from last year, according to Jayson Lusk, head of the department of agricultural economics at Purdue University.

Some meatpacking plants are coming back online after President Donald Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/67cb4bad7ffe500beabdf8e7e7efea5d">issued an executive order</a>&nbsp;last week requiring them to stay open. But until they’re back at full capacity, consumers will likely see some shortages and higher prices for beef and pork, Lusk said. Poultry production has also been impacted, but to a lesser degree.

On Tuesday,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/6a34d27d3d7f9fdcf837c272ba539972">the attorneys general for 11 Midwestern states</a>&nbsp;urged the Justice Department to pursue a federal investigation into market concentration and potential price fixing by meatpackers in the cattle industry, pointing out the disparity in the price of live cattle and the retail cost of boxed beef that is sold to consumers.

“Given the concentrated market structure of the beef industry, it may be particularly susceptible to market manipulation, particularly during times of food insecurity, such as the current COVID-19 crisis,” they wrote.

Just over 1,000 Wendy’s restaurants — or nearly 20% — had no beef items available on their online menus Monday night, according to an analysis by Stephens Inc., an investment bank. Stephens analyst James Rutherford said some states, like Ohio, Michigan and New York, seemed to be impacted more than others.

Wendy’s responded that some menu items may be temporarily limited, but it continues to supply its restaurants with beef two to three times a week. The company said it’s trying to limit disruptions to its supplies.

Costco, Sam’s Club, Hy-Vee and Kroger are limiting purchases of meat to avoid panic buying. Kroger Co., which also owns Ralphs and Harris Teeter markets, said it wants to ensure buyers have a broad assortment.

“There is plenty of protein in the supply chain,” Kroger said in a statement.

Empty and underfilled coolers greeted shoppers in the meat department at the Costco in the Minneapolis suburb of St. Louis Park Tuesday morning, one day after the retailer started limiting fresh meat purchases to three items per customer.

On Tuesday afternoon, a Kroger store in suburban Atlanta was limiting purchases to two packages of chicken, two packages of pork or three packages of ground beef at a time.

Marie Livingston left the store with beef stew meat and some other cuts. She accepted the limits as inevitable.

“Ultimately, you had to see it was coming to this,” Livingston said. “You have to limit the supply so everyone can get some and it’s fair.”

A few hundred yards away at Publix Super Markets on Tuesday afternoon, the store was limiting shoppers to two packages of chicken and was running low. But it was noticeably better stocked on beef and pork.

Some companies — including Target and McDonald’s — have no restrictions in place. McDonald’s said last week it has seen no supply interruptions because it uses a wide variety of suppliers.

Meat producer Tyson Foods Inc. said it’s working hard to get its plants back up safely.

“It’s very difficult to speculate on how challenges to the food supply will evolve in the coming weeks, but we are doing our best to maximize our production to meet demand,” the company said in a statement.

Makers of alternative proteins say they can help fill the void. El Segundo, California-based Beyond Meat said Tuesday it will be offering lower-cost value packs over the next few weeks to encourage companies to try its burgers. The company said its first-quarter revenue jumped 141% to $97 million, partly because consumers stocked up ahead of lockdowns in March.

“I think we have snuck in at just the right time,” Beyond Meat President and CEO Ethan Brown said.

Impossible Foods, which makes soy-based burgers and sausage, said Tuesday it’s accelerating its retail sales after seeing a falloff in sales to restaurants. Its burgers will go on sale at 1,700 Kroger grocery stores starting this week, which more than doubles the number of stores offering them. In January, the burgers were only available at 250 stores nationwide.

Impossible said consumer awareness of its products is up sharply, and it’s seeing evidence that more people are trying alternative meats.

Impossible says it’s able to produce plant-based foods safely because workers can stay farther apart and more machinery is automated than in slaughterhouses. Beyond Meat also said it has had no reported illnesses at its facilities.

“Anytime there’s a spotlight illuminating what’s actually involved in slaughtering animals and producing meat it is bad news for the meat industry,” Impossible CEO Pat Brown said.

Dr. Praeger’s, a New Jersey-based maker of plant-based chicken tenders, veggie burgers and other products, said it has also seen higher sales since the pandemic began and is adding another production line to handle demand.

Nielsen says sales of fresh meat alternatives were up 224% the week ending April 25. It noted fresh meat sales jumped 50% in the same period.

By DEE-ANN DURBIN, Associated PressThe effects of the coronavirus pandemic have moved beyond meat processing plants and are now hitting dinner plates.Several U.S. production plants have been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/d855667c811d3d9810883e05702288ad">temporarily shuttered</a>&nbsp;in the last two weeks after hundreds of workers were sickened by the virus. That has led to meat shortages, with Wendy’s pulling some burgers off its menus and Costco limiting pork sales. Fake meat companies, meanwhile, are making their moves to capture some of those lost sales.Beyond Meat, which makes burgers and sausage from pea protein, said Tuesday it’s launching new value packs to entice consumers while rival Impossible Foods is expanding sales to more than 1,700 Kroger groceries.As of Monday, U.S. beef and pork processing capacity was down 40% from last year, according to Jayson Lusk, head of the department of agricultural economics at Purdue University.Some meatpacking plants are coming back online after President Donald Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/67cb4bad7ffe500beabdf8e7e7efea5d">issued an executive order</a>&nbsp;last week requiring them to stay open. But until they’re back at full capacity, consumers will likely see some shortages and higher prices for beef and pork, Lusk said. Poultry production has also been impacted, but to a lesser degree.On Tuesday,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/6a34d27d3d7f9fdcf837c272ba539972">the attorneys general for 11 Midwestern states</a>&nbsp;urged the Justice Department to pursue a federal investigation into market concentration and potential price fixing by meatpackers in the cattle industry, pointing out the disparity in the price of live cattle and the retail cost of boxed beef that is sold to consumers.“Given the concentrated market structure of the beef industry, it may be particularly susceptible to market manipulation, particularly during times of food insecurity, such as the current COVID-19 crisis,” they wrote.Just over 1,000 Wendy’s restaurants — or nearly 20% — had no beef items available on their online menus Monday night, according to an analysis by Stephens Inc., an investment bank. Stephens analyst James Rutherford said some states, like Ohio, Michigan and New York, seemed to be impacted more than others.Wendy’s responded that some menu items may be temporarily limited, but it continues to supply its restaurants with beef two to three times a week. The company said it’s trying to limit disruptions to its supplies.Costco, Sam’s Club, Hy-Vee and Kroger are limiting purchases of meat to avoid panic buying. Kroger Co., which also owns Ralphs and Harris Teeter markets, said it wants to ensure buyers have a broad assortment.“There is plenty of protein in the supply chain,” Kroger said in a statement.Empty and underfilled coolers greeted shoppers in the meat department at the Costco in the Minneapolis suburb of St. Louis Park Tuesday morning, one day after the retailer started limiting fresh meat purchases to three items per customer.On Tuesday afternoon, a Kroger store in suburban Atlanta was limiting purchases to two packages of chicken, two packages of pork or three packages of ground beef at a time.Marie Livingston left the store with beef stew meat and some other cuts. She accepted the limits as inevitable.“Ultimately, you had to see it was coming to this,” Livingston said. “You have to limit the supply so everyone can get some and it’s fair.”A few hundred yards away at Publix Super Markets on Tuesday afternoon, the store was limiting shoppers to two packages of chicken and was running low. But it was noticeably better stocked on beef and pork.Some companies — including Target and McDonald’s — have no restrictions in place. McDonald’s said last week it has seen no supply interruptions because it uses a wide variety of suppliers.Meat producer Tyson Foods Inc. said it’s working hard to get its plants back up safely.“It’s very difficult to speculate on how challenges to the food supply will evolve in the coming weeks, but we are doing our best to maximize our production to meet demand,” the company said in a statement.Makers of alternative proteins say they can help fill the void. El Segundo, California-based Beyond Meat said Tuesday it will be offering lower-cost value packs over the next few weeks to encourage companies to try its burgers. The company said its first-quarter revenue jumped 141% to $97 million, partly because consumers stocked up ahead of lockdowns in March.“I think we have snuck in at just the right time,” Beyond Meat President and CEO Ethan Brown said.Impossible Foods, which makes soy-based burgers and sausage, said Tuesday it’s accelerating its retail sales after seeing a falloff in sales to restaurants. Its burgers will go on sale at 1,700 Kroger grocery stores starting this week, which more than doubles the number of stores offering them. In January, the burgers were only available at 250 stores nationwide.Impossible said consumer awareness of its products is up sharply, and it’s seeing evidence that more people are trying alternative meats.Impossible says it’s able to produce plant-based foods safely because workers can stay farther apart and more machinery is automated than in slaughterhouses. Beyond Meat also said it has had no reported illnesses at its facilities.“Anytime there’s a spotlight illuminating what’s actually involved in slaughtering animals and producing meat it is bad news for the meat industry,” Impossible CEO Pat Brown said.Dr. Praeger’s, a New Jersey-based maker of plant-based chicken tenders, veggie burgers and other products, said it has also seen higher sales since the pandemic began and is adding another production line to handle demand.Nielsen says sales of fresh meat alternatives were up 224% the week ending April 25. It noted fresh meat sales jumped 50% in the same period.___

Where's the beef? Production shutdown leads to shortage

MARSHFIELD, Mo. (AP) — A preliminary hearing has been postponed for a southwest Missouri man accused of killing his wife in 2015 and stowing her body in a freezer for years.

The hearing for Larry Dinwiddie will now be held in July.

Dinwiddie is charged with second-degree murder and abandonment of a corpse. The body of his wife, Cynthia Dinwiddie,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/2026496a05084124bd4c08111eaa9a83">was found inside a freezer&nbsp;</a>at a storage facility near Marshfield last November. After Dinwiddie fell behind on rental fees, workers at the storage facility found the body in a running freezer that had been padlocked shut.

Dinwiddie remains jailed on $1 million bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574908400828.png" alt="Dinwiddie -photo Webster Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Dinwiddie -photo Webster Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>MARSHFIELD, Mo. (AP) — A preliminary hearing has been postponed for a southwest Missouri man accused of killing his wife in 2015 and stowing her body in a freezer for years.The hearing for Larry Dinwiddie will now be held in July.Dinwiddie is charged with second-degree murder and abandonment of a corpse. The body of his wife, Cynthia Dinwiddie,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/2026496a05084124bd4c08111eaa9a83">was found inside a freezer&nbsp;</a>at a storage facility near Marshfield last November. After Dinwiddie fell behind on rental fees, workers at the storage facility found the body in a running freezer that had been padlocked shut.Dinwiddie remains jailed on $1 million bond.

Update: Man accused of stowing wife's body in freezer

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — A suspect in the April shooting death of an 18-year-old Wichita woman told a friend he chased down the car the woman was in and “unloaded” a semi-automatic rifle on the car following a fight at a local trailer park, according to the friend’s testimony in court records.

Police detailed the statement in an arrest affidavit. The statement was reportedly given to investigators looking into the April 13 shooting that killed Aubrey Resendez. Prosecutors have charged Joshua Johnson, 32, of Wichita, with first-degree murder in her death.

Police say in the affidavit that investigators tracked a truck used in the attack to a Wichita home, where investigators found a friend of Johnson’s. The friend told police that Johnson showed up at his home the day of the shooting holding an assault rifle and saying he had argued with two men at the trailer park where he lived. The friend said Johnson told him he then retrieved the rifle, chased the car the men were in and “unloaded on them.”

Police have said Resendez was in the car with her boyfriend and brother at the time. The two men were not hurt in the shooting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586790756899.png" alt="Police on the scene of the fatal shooting -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the fatal shooting -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — A suspect in the April shooting death of an 18-year-old Wichita woman told a friend he chased down the car the woman was in and “unloaded” a semi-automatic rifle on the car following a fight at a local trailer park, according to the friend’s testimony in court records.Police detailed the statement in an arrest affidavit. The statement was reportedly given to investigators looking into the April 13 shooting that killed Aubrey Resendez. Prosecutors have charged Joshua Johnson, 32, of Wichita, with first-degree murder in her death.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587056156024.png" alt="Johnson photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Johnson photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>Police say in the affidavit that investigators tracked a truck used in the attack to a Wichita home, where investigators found a friend of Johnson’s. The friend told police that Johnson showed up at his home the day of the shooting holding an assault rifle and saying he had argued with two men at the trailer park where he lived. The friend said Johnson told him he then retrieved the rifle, chased the car the men were in and “unloaded on them.”Police have said Resendez was in the car with her boyfriend and brother at the time. The two men were not hurt in the shooting.Johnson is being held on $300,000 bond.

Court documents: Kan. man 'unloaded' rifle on car after dispute

Breana McPherson has been located and is safe, according to Scott City police.&nbsp; They released no additional details.

SCOTT COUNTY&nbsp; — Law enforcement authorities are asking the public for help to located a missing 15-year-old girl from Scott City, according to a social media report from police.

Breana McPherson is a described as 5-foot-3 and weighs 102 pounds with black hair and brown eyes.

She was reported missing at approximately 3a.m. Tuesday.

Authorities found the vehicle she took at the Scott County Cemetery. Police say they are very worried about her welfare and asking the public for help locating her. She may be in the Garden City area, according to police.

If you have any information of her possible whereabouts call the Scott City Police Department at (620) 872-2133. You may remain anonymous!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588687330077.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Breana McPherson7p.m. updateBreana McPherson has been located and is safe, according to Scott City police.&nbsp; They released no additional details.--------SCOTT COUNTY&nbsp; — Law enforcement authorities are asking the public for help to located a missing 15-year-old girl from Scott City, according to a social media report from police.Breana McPherson is a described as 5-foot-3 and weighs 102 pounds with black hair and brown eyes.She was reported missing at approximately 3a.m. Tuesday.Authorities found the vehicle she took at the Scott County Cemetery. Police say they are very worried about her welfare and asking the public for help locating her. She may be in the Garden City area, according to police.If you have any information of her possible whereabouts call the Scott City Police Department at (620) 872-2133. You may remain anonymous!