LINCOLN, Neb.-The Nebraska State Patrol is looking for the next class of State Troopers to help patrol The Good Life. Applications are now open for NSP Camp 66.

“The journey to becoming a Nebraska State Trooper starts with an application, and we’re looking for men and women who are ready to take that first step,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “Filling out that application opens the door to a world of opportunity and a fulfilling career spent serving the people of Nebraska.”

Nebraska State Troopers serve Nebraska in a wide variety of capacities. Career paths include patrolling Nebraska’s roadways, investigating crime throughout the state, handling a K-9, connecting with the public through education and safety programs, operating on the SWAT Team, piloting with the Air Wing, negotiating during crisis situations, and many more.

Camp 66 begins training in January 2022 and will conclude with the graduation of a new class of State Troopers in June 2022. The Nebraska State Patrol offers a starting salary of $47,944 upon graduation, along with benefits including medical and life insurance, paid vacation, sick leave, and a great retirement program. During a 22-week training program at the NSP Training Academy, recruits will earn $21.00 per hour.

“All of the future troopers selected to be a part of Camp 66 will receive extensive training from our expert staff at the Nebraska State Patrol Training Academy,” said Colonel Bolduc. “The recruits bring the drive and attitude of service, and our staff will develop the skills they need to serve with professionalism, honor, and compassion as Nebraska State Troopers.”

Applicants must be a United States citizen and at least 21 years of age by June 17, 2022, when they take the oath of office. Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED equivalence. Additional information about the application and selection process, including physical requirements, can be found at the&nbsp;<a href="https://statepatrol.nebraska.gov/become-trooper" target="_blank">Become A Trooper</a>&nbsp;section of the NSP website.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621869122134.png" alt="Photo: NSP" />
 <figcaption>Photo: NSP</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb.-The Nebraska State Patrol is looking for the next class of State Troopers to help patrol The Good Life. Applications are now open for NSP Camp 66.“The journey to becoming a Nebraska State Trooper starts with an application, and we’re looking for men and women who are ready to take that first step,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “Filling out that application opens the door to a world of opportunity and a fulfilling career spent serving the people of Nebraska.”Nebraska State Troopers serve Nebraska in a wide variety of capacities. Career paths include patrolling Nebraska’s roadways, investigating crime throughout the state, handling a K-9, connecting with the public through education and safety programs, operating on the SWAT Team, piloting with the Air Wing, negotiating during crisis situations, and many more.Camp 66 begins training in January 2022 and will conclude with the graduation of a new class of State Troopers in June 2022. The Nebraska State Patrol offers a starting salary of $47,944 upon graduation, along with benefits including medical and life insurance, paid vacation, sick leave, and a great retirement program. During a 22-week training program at the NSP Training Academy, recruits will earn $21.00 per hour.“All of the future troopers selected to be a part of Camp 66 will receive extensive training from our expert staff at the Nebraska State Patrol Training Academy,” said Colonel Bolduc. “The recruits bring the drive and attitude of service, and our staff will develop the skills they need to serve with professionalism, honor, and compassion as Nebraska State Troopers.”Applicants must be a United States citizen and at least 21 years of age by June 17, 2022, when they take the oath of office. Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED equivalence. Additional information about the application and selection process, including physical requirements, can be found at the&nbsp;<a href="https://statepatrol.nebraska.gov/become-trooper" target="_blank">Become A Trooper</a>&nbsp;section of the NSP website.

Nebraska State Patrol begins search for next class of troopers

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — A federal judge will allow a Native American tribe to join legal arguments opposing South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem’s efforts to put on a July Fourth fireworks display at Mount Rushmore. 

The Republican governor has sued the Department of the Interior after the National Park Service denied the state a permit to hold a fireworks display at the monument. 

Chief Judge Roberto Lange ruled the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe can join the case.

 Lange granted the tribe’s request in part because the Park Service cited concerns from local Native American tribes for denying the state’s application.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — A federal judge will allow a Native American tribe to join legal arguments opposing South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem’s efforts to put on a July Fourth fireworks display at Mount Rushmore. The Republican governor has sued the Department of the Interior after the National Park Service denied the state a permit to hold a fireworks display at the monument. Chief Judge Roberto Lange ruled the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe can join the case. Lange granted the tribe’s request in part because the Park Service cited concerns from local Native American tribes for denying the state’s application.

Federal judge: Tribe allowed to join Mount Rushmore lawsuit

By Ruth Nicolaus-For Nebraskaland Days

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-When there’s a mean bull in the rodeo arena, Weston Rutkowski doesn’t run away from it, he runs towards it.

That’s because the Texas cowboy is a bullfighter, and he’s a new hire for this year’s Buffalo Bill Rodeo.

Rutkowski, who is 32 years old, will step in during the bull riding with fellow bull fighter Zach Call to distract bulls after each ride, to give the bull rider time to scramble to safety.

He grew up with a mother who was the 1976 Miss Rodeo Texas and maternal uncles who rode saddle broncs.

“I didn’t have a chance,” he joked. “I’ve been a rodeo kid my whole life. I’ve been to rodeos since I could walk.”

He competed in junior rodeos, but when he got to high school, his mom wouldn’t let him ride bulls because of high school sports. He excelled at football and attended college to play, but when he realized he didn’t have much chance of playing, he went back to riding bulls.

And, as what happens with a lot of bullfighters, Rutkowski’s bullfighting career began in a practice pen. A friend asked him to step in as bullfighter, and that was it. “I knew right then and there it was what I wanted to do.”

It was the adrenaline rush that did it. “There was a gap for me to step in,” during the first time in the practice pen, “to save my buddy. I stepped in there grabbed the bull, and threw him a fake out of pure reaction. That pure adrenaline rush was awesome. I didn’t get that riding bulls.”

That was ten years ago, and in 2013, Rutkowski became a PRCA member.

He also does freestyle bullfighting: a competition between bullfighter and bull, where the bullfighter scores points for maneuvers performed during the contest, which usually lasts about a minute. Rutkowski is a three-time freestyle world champion in the Bullfighters Only association (2016-18).

He loves being in front of the bulls of Beutler and Son Rodeo. “It’s always fun to work with (Bennie Beutler and son Rhett Beutler.)” A lot of stock contractors’ bulls are done when the buzzer sounds, and they head for the gate. Not so true for Beutler bulls. “Bennie’s bulls have that high-headed, mean, bucking bull mentality.

“You’re guaranteed to sell tickets one way or another,” Rutkowski said, “whether that’s you getting thrown or the cowboy getting thrown.”

The Buffalo Bill Rodeo will be held June 16-19 at the Wild West Arena in North Platte, Neb. Tickets range in price from $6 to $17 and can be purchased online at NebraskalandDays.com, the ticket office (2801 Charlie Evans Drive, North Platte); and at the gate. For more information, visit the website or call&nbsp;the office at 308.532.7939.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621863736925.png" alt="Weston Rutkowski readies to step in to rescue a bull rider after the buzzer sounds. The Cleburne, Texas cowboy has been hired to work the Buffalo Bill Rodeo in North Platte, Neb. June 16-19. Photo by Terri Abrahamsen. " />
 <figcaption>Weston Rutkowski readies to step in to rescue a bull rider after the buzzer sounds. The Cleburne, Texas cowboy has been hired to work the Buffalo Bill Rodeo in North Platte, Neb. June 16-19. Photo by Terri Abrahamsen. </figcaption>
 </figure>By Ruth Nicolaus-For Nebraskaland DaysNORTH PLATTE, Neb.-When there’s a mean bull in the rodeo arena, Weston Rutkowski doesn’t run away from it, he runs towards it.That’s because the Texas cowboy is a bullfighter, and he’s a new hire for this year’s Buffalo Bill Rodeo.Rutkowski, who is 32 years old, will step in during the bull riding with fellow bull fighter Zach Call to distract bulls after each ride, to give the bull rider time to scramble to safety.He grew up with a mother who was the 1976 Miss Rodeo Texas and maternal uncles who rode saddle broncs.“I didn’t have a chance,” he joked. “I’ve been a rodeo kid my whole life. I’ve been to rodeos since I could walk.”He competed in junior rodeos, but when he got to high school, his mom wouldn’t let him ride bulls because of high school sports. He excelled at football and attended college to play, but when he realized he didn’t have much chance of playing, he went back to riding bulls.And, as what happens with a lot of bullfighters, Rutkowski’s bullfighting career began in a practice pen. A friend asked him to step in as bullfighter, and that was it. “I knew right then and there it was what I wanted to do.”It was the adrenaline rush that did it. “There was a gap for me to step in,” during the first time in the practice pen, “to save my buddy. I stepped in there grabbed the bull, and threw him a fake out of pure reaction. That pure adrenaline rush was awesome. I didn’t get that riding bulls.”That was ten years ago, and in 2013, Rutkowski became a PRCA member.He also does freestyle bullfighting: a competition between bullfighter and bull, where the bullfighter scores points for maneuvers performed during the contest, which usually lasts about a minute. Rutkowski is a three-time freestyle world champion in the Bullfighters Only association (2016-18).He loves being in front of the bulls of Beutler and Son Rodeo. “It’s always fun to work with (Bennie Beutler and son Rhett Beutler.)” A lot of stock contractors’ bulls are done when the buzzer sounds, and they head for the gate. Not so true for Beutler bulls. “Bennie’s bulls have that high-headed, mean, bucking bull mentality.“You’re guaranteed to sell tickets one way or another,” Rutkowski said, “whether that’s you getting thrown or the cowboy getting thrown.”The Buffalo Bill Rodeo will be held June 16-19 at the Wild West Arena in North Platte, Neb. Tickets range in price from $6 to $17 and can be purchased online at NebraskalandDays.com, the ticket office (2801 Charlie Evans Drive, North Platte); and at the gate. For more information, visit the website or call&nbsp;the office at 308.532.7939.

Buffalo Bill Rodeo hires Texas bullfighter

News Release West Central District Health Department

The risk dial remains at a 1.94, which is in the moderate risk level. There were no changes in variables.

There have been 26 new cases of COVID-19 reported to WCDHD.

While in the Moderate Risk category, physical distance of 6 feet or greater, wearing face coverings when outside the home, frequent handwashing (or use of hand sanitizer), staying home if you are having flu-like or COVID-like symptoms, disinfecting high touch surfaces, and having at-risk and vulnerable people remain home are recommended as the greatest tools in reducing the spread of COVID-19. For more information on recommendations for the various risk categories of the WCDHD Community Risk Dial, please visit the COVID-19 Risk Dial page on our website.

<a href="https://public.tableau.com/views/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/CaseInformation?:language=en&amp;:display_count=y&amp;:origin=viz_share_link">WCDHD COVID-19 Dashboard</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621859014632.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News Release West Central District Health DepartmentThe risk dial remains at a 1.94, which is in the moderate risk level. There were no changes in variables.There have been 26 new cases of COVID-19 reported to WCDHD.While in the Moderate Risk category, physical distance of 6 feet or greater, wearing face coverings when outside the home, frequent handwashing (or use of hand sanitizer), staying home if you are having flu-like or COVID-like symptoms, disinfecting high touch surfaces, and having at-risk and vulnerable people remain home are recommended as the greatest tools in reducing the spread of COVID-19. For more information on recommendations for the various risk categories of the WCDHD Community Risk Dial, please visit the COVID-19 Risk Dial page on our website.<a href="https://wcdhd.org/coronavirus/risk-dial.html">Risk Dial Page</a><a href="https://public.tableau.com/views/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/CaseInformation?:language=en&amp;:display_count=y&amp;:origin=viz_share_link">WCDHD COVID-19 Dashboard</a>

WCDHD COVID risk dial remains at moderate risk

LINCOLN, Neb. -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.themarshallproject.org/2021/04/22/foster-care-agencies-take-thousands-of-dollars-owed-to-kids-most-children-have-no-idea" target="_blank">A new report</a>&nbsp;shows at least 49 states, including Nebraska, are seizing thousands of dollars in Social Security, veterans and other benefits from children in foster care. State foster-care agencies collected more than $165 million from children in 2018. Sarah Helvey, child welfare director with&nbsp;<a href="https://neappleseed.org/" target="_blank">Nebraska Appleseed</a>, said youths who age out of the system tend to have higher rates of homelessness, lower educational attainment and rates of employment - whereas having access to those benefits could help them transition into self-sufficient adults. "So when they age out," said Helvey, "they have access to that funding to help them get a positive start in life, rather than being used to compensate the state or reimburse the state for the cost of their room and board while in foster care." State agencies have defended the practice, noting that the benefits help recover some of the cost of caring for kids, even though federal law says Children's Social Security benefits were not intended to be a funding stream for foster care. State Sen. Megan Hunt - D-Omaha - recently called for&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/FloorDocs/107/PDF/Intro/LR198.pdf" target="_blank">an interim study</a>&nbsp;to see how widespread the practice is in Nebraska, partly in response to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.themarshallproject.org/2021/04/22/foster-care-agencies-take-thousands-of-dollars-owed-to-kids-most-children-have-no-idea" target="_blank">the report by The Marshall Project and National Public Radio</a>. Most state child-services agencies surveyed in the report say it's legal for them to apply to the Social Security administration to become the financial representative for foster children's benefits. Helved notes there are other funding streams meant to support foster care available, and that Nebraska currently is leaving a lot of federal money the state is entitled to on the table. "And so if we improve some of our policies and procedures," said Helvey, "then we could be getting more of that right funding stream for foster care in Nebraska, rather than taking from foster children's SSI benefits." In many cases, children are not informed that their benefits have been taken. Youth advocates are calling for agencies to at least notify every child in foster care and their lawyer, if they have one, that the state has taken their benefits. The report notes that the U.S. Constitution prohibits the government from taking your possessions without giving you a chance to contest it.

From Nebraska News ConnectionBy Eric GalatasLINCOLN, Neb. -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.themarshallproject.org/2021/04/22/foster-care-agencies-take-thousands-of-dollars-owed-to-kids-most-children-have-no-idea" target="_blank">A new report</a>&nbsp;shows at least 49 states, including Nebraska, are seizing thousands of dollars in Social Security, veterans and other benefits from children in foster care. State foster-care agencies collected more than $165 million from children in 2018. Sarah Helvey, child welfare director with&nbsp;<a href="https://neappleseed.org/" target="_blank">Nebraska Appleseed</a>, said youths who age out of the system tend to have higher rates of homelessness, lower educational attainment and rates of employment - whereas having access to those benefits could help them transition into self-sufficient adults. "So when they age out," said Helvey, "they have access to that funding to help them get a positive start in life, rather than being used to compensate the state or reimburse the state for the cost of their room and board while in foster care." State agencies have defended the practice, noting that the benefits help recover some of the cost of caring for kids, even though federal law says Children's Social Security benefits were not intended to be a funding stream for foster care. State Sen. Megan Hunt - D-Omaha - recently called for&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/FloorDocs/107/PDF/Intro/LR198.pdf" target="_blank">an interim study</a>&nbsp;to see how widespread the practice is in Nebraska, partly in response to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.themarshallproject.org/2021/04/22/foster-care-agencies-take-thousands-of-dollars-owed-to-kids-most-children-have-no-idea" target="_blank">the report by The Marshall Project and National Public Radio</a>. Most state child-services agencies surveyed in the report say it's legal for them to apply to the Social Security administration to become the financial representative for foster children's benefits. Helved notes there are other funding streams meant to support foster care available, and that Nebraska currently is leaving a lot of federal money the state is entitled to on the table. "And so if we improve some of our policies and procedures," said Helvey, "then we could be getting more of that right funding stream for foster care in Nebraska, rather than taking from foster children's SSI benefits." In many cases, children are not informed that their benefits have been taken. Youth advocates are calling for agencies to at least notify every child in foster care and their lawyer, if they have one, that the state has taken their benefits. The report notes that the U.S. Constitution prohibits the government from taking your possessions without giving you a chance to contest it.

Nebraska among states taking foster kids’ benefits

One lucky player who bought a 2by2 ticket for the Sunday, May 23 drawing is holding a ticket worth $22,000.

The Nebraska Lottery has confirmed that one ticket sold for Sunday’s 2by2 draw matched all four winning numbers for the $22,000 top prize. The ticket was sold at Hy-vee Food Store #1323, 5212 3rd Ave, in Kearney. The winning numbers from Sunday’s 2by2 draw were Red 10, 24, and White 01, 03. Players are encouraged to check their tickets at any Nebraska Lottery retailer, online at nelottery.com, or by calling the Lottery office at 402-471-6100.

Winning Nebraska Lottery Lotto tickets expire 180 days after the drawing. Prizes of $20,000 or more must be claimed in person at Lottery headquarters in Lincoln. Additional information about claiming prizes can be found at the Nebraska Lottery website, nelottery.com, or by calling 800-587-5200.

2by2 is run by the Multi-State Lottery Association and was introduced in June 2002. Players in Idaho, Kansas, Nebraska, North Dakota, and Wyoming have the opportunity to win up to $22,000 Monday through Sunday by playing 2by2. The odds of winning the $22,000 2by2 top prize are 1 in 105,625. The overall odds of winning any prize are 1 in 3.59.

The mission of the Nebraska Lottery is to generate proceeds for good causes while providing quality entertainment options to Nebraskans. Over $818 million has been raised for the Nebraska Lottery’s beneficiary funds since the Lottery began in 1993. All 93 counties in Nebraska have benefited from projects funded with these Nebraska Lottery proceeds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621856971476.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News Release Nebraska LotteryOne lucky player who bought a 2by2 ticket for the Sunday, May 23 drawing is holding a ticket worth $22,000.The Nebraska Lottery has confirmed that one ticket sold for Sunday’s 2by2 draw matched all four winning numbers for the $22,000 top prize. The ticket was sold at Hy-vee Food Store #1323, 5212 3rd Ave, in Kearney. The winning numbers from Sunday’s 2by2 draw were Red 10, 24, and White 01, 03. Players are encouraged to check their tickets at any Nebraska Lottery retailer, online at nelottery.com, or by calling the Lottery office at 402-471-6100.Winning Nebraska Lottery Lotto tickets expire 180 days after the drawing. Prizes of $20,000 or more must be claimed in person at Lottery headquarters in Lincoln. Additional information about claiming prizes can be found at the Nebraska Lottery website, nelottery.com, or by calling 800-587-5200.2by2 is run by the Multi-State Lottery Association and was introduced in June 2002. Players in Idaho, Kansas, Nebraska, North Dakota, and Wyoming have the opportunity to win up to $22,000 Monday through Sunday by playing 2by2. The odds of winning the $22,000 2by2 top prize are 1 in 105,625. The overall odds of winning any prize are 1 in 3.59.The mission of the Nebraska Lottery is to generate proceeds for good causes while providing quality entertainment options to Nebraskans. Over $818 million has been raised for the Nebraska Lottery’s beneficiary funds since the Lottery began in 1993. All 93 counties in Nebraska have benefited from projects funded with these Nebraska Lottery proceeds.

Winning $22K 2by2 ticket sold in Kearney

Severe weather continues to affect the Panhandle of Nebraska. A small funnel was confirmed southeast of Alliance on May 23.&nbsp;

According to the Alliance Police Department, a trained weather spotter confirmed a small funnel that touched down on the ground a couple miles southeast of Alliance.&nbsp;

The funnel was on the ground for a few seconds at around 5 p.m.&nbsp;

The Alliance Police Department set off the weather sirens in the City of Alliance after this confirmed report.&nbsp;

No damage has been confirmed at this time.&nbsp;

By Kalin Krohe, Panhandle PostSevere weather continues to affect the Panhandle of Nebraska. A small funnel was confirmed southeast of Alliance on May 23.&nbsp;According to the Alliance Police Department, a trained weather spotter confirmed a small funnel that touched down on the ground a couple miles southeast of Alliance.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621814684860.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy:&nbsp;Tyler Archambeau" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy:&nbsp;Tyler Archambeau</figcaption>
 </figure>The funnel was on the ground for a few seconds at around 5 p.m.&nbsp;The Alliance Police Department set off the weather sirens in the City of Alliance after this confirmed report.&nbsp;No damage has been confirmed at this time.&nbsp;

APD confirms small funnel south of Alliance

CAMARILLO, Calif. (AP) — The average U.S. price of regular-grade gasoline jumped 8 cents over the past two weeks, to $3.10 per gallon. 

Industry analyst Trilby Lundberg of the Lundberg Survey said Sunday that the increase is attributed to supply disruption from the 10-day shutdown of the Colonial Pipeline following a cyberattack, and a rise in prices for corn, a key ingredient in corn-based ethanol that must be blended by refiners into gasoline. 

The price at the pump is $1.05 higher than it was a year ago. 

The highest average price in the nation right now is $4.23 a gallon in the San Francisco Bay Area. The lowest average is $2.53 in Houston.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585680635524.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CAMARILLO, Calif. (AP) — The average U.S. price of regular-grade gasoline jumped 8 cents over the past two weeks, to $3.10 per gallon. Industry analyst Trilby Lundberg of the Lundberg Survey said Sunday that the increase is attributed to supply disruption from the 10-day shutdown of the Colonial Pipeline following a cyberattack, and a rise in prices for corn, a key ingredient in corn-based ethanol that must be blended by refiners into gasoline. The price at the pump is $1.05 higher than it was a year ago. The highest average price in the nation right now is $4.23 a gallon in the San Francisco Bay Area. The lowest average is $2.53 in Houston.

Average US price of gas jumps 8 cents per gallon to $3.10

BOSTON (AP) — Newly digitized records from the 18th century are shedding fresh light on devastating outbreaks of smallpox that hit the Boston area starting in 1721. 

The records include a minister’s diary held by the New England Historic Genealogical Society and scanned and posted online by Boston’s Congregational Library and Archives. 

The documents reveal some surprising similarities between how Bostonians coped with smallpox and how we're navigating the coronavirus pandemic. 

They show that some people in the 1700s resisted getting inoculated against smallpox — just as some Americans today are skeptical of highly effective COVID-19 vaccines. 

Smallpox is the only human infectious disease ever to have been completely eradicated.

BOSTON (AP) — Newly digitized records from the 18th century are shedding fresh light on devastating outbreaks of smallpox that hit the Boston area starting in 1721. The records include a minister’s diary held by the New England Historic Genealogical Society and scanned and posted online by Boston’s Congregational Library and Archives. The documents reveal some surprising similarities between how Bostonians coped with smallpox and how we're navigating the coronavirus pandemic. They show that some people in the 1700s resisted getting inoculated against smallpox — just as some Americans today are skeptical of highly effective COVID-19 vaccines. Smallpox is the only human infectious disease ever to have been completely eradicated.

Old records shed new light on smallpox outbreaks in 1700s

From the National Weather Service-North Platte

From the National Weather Service-North Platte<figure>
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Severe weather possible for panhandle, southwest Nebraska Sunday

RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) — Wildlife officials are urging caution as the number of black bear sightings have increased in the Black Hills.

 Bears have been recently been sighted in Lead, Spearfish, Johnson Siding and last weekend in Rapid City. 

Mike Klosowski, regional supervisor for South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, says officials are confident it's multiple bears that have been sighted, not the same one. 

Officials say the number of confirmed sightings has been increasing 10 to 15 times in recent years. 

Although observing a black bear in populated areas might be exciting, Klosowski warns the public to stay away from the predator and watch from a safe distance.

RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) — Wildlife officials are urging caution as the number of black bear sightings have increased in the Black Hills. Bears have been recently been sighted in Lead, Spearfish, Johnson Siding and last weekend in Rapid City. Mike Klosowski, regional supervisor for South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, says officials are confident it's multiple bears that have been sighted, not the same one. Officials say the number of confirmed sightings has been increasing 10 to 15 times in recent years. Although observing a black bear in populated areas might be exciting, Klosowski warns the public to stay away from the predator and watch from a safe distance.

Bear sightings in the Black Hills on the increase

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska lawmakers have approved a corporate income tax cut designed to bring the rate closer to the one paid by small business owners, despite objections that the lost revenue could be used for other purposes. 

Senators voted the measure through its third and final vote, 42-1, and sent it to Republican Gov. Pete Ricketts, who’s expected to sign it. 

The measure would drop Nebraska’s top corporate income tax rate from 7.81% to 7.25% over two years. 

The estimated revenue losses to the state would grow each year, from $1.9 million in the upcoming fiscal year to $26 million by fiscal year 2025.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska lawmakers have approved a corporate income tax cut designed to bring the rate closer to the one paid by small business owners, despite objections that the lost revenue could be used for other purposes. Senators voted the measure through its third and final vote, 42-1, and sent it to Republican Gov. Pete Ricketts, who’s expected to sign it. The measure would drop Nebraska’s top corporate income tax rate from 7.81% to 7.25% over two years. The estimated revenue losses to the state would grow each year, from $1.9 million in the upcoming fiscal year to $26 million by fiscal year 2025.

Nebraska lawmakers approve $26M corporate income tax cut

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska retained its spot as the state with the nation’s lowest unemployment rate last month as the percentage improved slightly. 

Nebraska reported seasonally adjusted April unemployment of 2.8%, tied with New Hampshire, South Dakota and Utah. Nebraska’s rate in March was 2.9%. 

The rates are substantially better than they were at the same time last year when the pandemic and social-distancing restrictions triggered widespread layoffs. 

The unemployment rate in April 2020 was 7.4% statewide, 8.7% in Omaha and 8% in Lincoln. The local unemployment rates from last month were 2.9% in Omaha, 2.2% in Lincoln and 2.5% in Grand Island.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska retained its spot as the state with the nation’s lowest unemployment rate last month as the percentage improved slightly. Nebraska reported seasonally adjusted April unemployment of 2.8%, tied with New Hampshire, South Dakota and Utah. Nebraska’s rate in March was 2.9%. The rates are substantially better than they were at the same time last year when the pandemic and social-distancing restrictions triggered widespread layoffs. The unemployment rate in April 2020 was 7.4% statewide, 8.7% in Omaha and 8% in Lincoln. The local unemployment rates from last month were 2.9% in Omaha, 2.2% in Lincoln and 2.5% in Grand Island.

Nebraska unemployment down in April, still lowest nationally

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — The Nebraska Supreme Court has rejected the postconviction appeal of a 69-year-old man serving life in prison for the brutal stabbing death of his girlfriend in 2017. 

Lucio Munoz had argued in his postconviction motion that his trial and direct appeal attorneys were so ineffective that it violated his right to fair trial. When a lower court rejected his motion without an evidentiary hearing, Munoz appealed. 

On Friday, the state's high court ruled that the lower court was right to dismiss the appeal without a hearing. 

Munoz was convicted of killing 48-year-old Melissa May, whose body was found in her Scottsbluff apartment Jan. 3, 2017. Police say she had been stabbed 37 times.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621616677948.png" alt="Munoz" />
 <figcaption>Munoz</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — The Nebraska Supreme Court has rejected the postconviction appeal of a 69-year-old man serving life in prison for the brutal stabbing death of his girlfriend in 2017. Lucio Munoz had argued in his postconviction motion that his trial and direct appeal attorneys were so ineffective that it violated his right to fair trial. When a lower court rejected his motion without an evidentiary hearing, Munoz appealed. On Friday, the state's high court ruled that the lower court was right to dismiss the appeal without a hearing. Munoz was convicted of killing 48-year-old Melissa May, whose body was found in her Scottsbluff apartment Jan. 3, 2017. Police say she had been stabbed 37 times.

Nebraska high court rejects appeal in Scottsbluff murder

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The North Platte Police and Fire Departments are inviting the public to a First Responders Picnic with the Public this Sunday.

Bring the family for an opportunity to meet and interact with the men and women who keep our community safe.

The picnic will be held at Cody Park from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

NebraskaLand National Bank is providing hot dogs, chips, and a drink for attendees.

There will be an ambulance, fire trucks, and a patrol car to see and explore.

By Scott Carlson-North Platte PostNORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The North Platte Police and Fire Departments are inviting the public to a First Responders Picnic with the Public this Sunday.Bring the family for an opportunity to meet and interact with the men and women who keep our community safe.The picnic will be held at Cody Park from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.NebraskaLand National Bank is providing hot dogs, chips, and a drink for attendees.There will be an ambulance, fire trucks, and a patrol car to see and explore.The event is free.<figure>
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North Platte police, fire departments to host Picnic with the Public on Sunday

News Release US Attorney's Office-Omaha

Acting United States Attorney Jan W. Sharp announced the federal Grand Jury for the District of Nebraska has returned 20 unsealed Indictments charging 21 defendants. Indictments are charging documents that contain one or more individual counts that are merely accusations, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Andrew Isaac Abrams, age 41, of Tucson, Arizona, is charged in a four-count Indictment.&nbsp; Counts one through four charge the defendant with transmission of an interstate communication containing a threat to injure the person of another on or about April 23, 2021.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 5 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment for each count.&nbsp;

Contact Criminal Chief Mike Norris at 402-661-3700 for further information.

*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Alberto Inocente Argueta Cordova, age 29, is charged with illegal reentry after deportation on or about April 19, 2021.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 2 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.

Contact Criminal Chief Mike Norris at 402-661-3700 for further information.

*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Bobby Joe Baer, is charged in a two-count Indictment.&nbsp; Count I charges Baer with possession with intent to distribute 5 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) on or about January 13, 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 40 years’ imprisonment, $5,000,000 fine, a four-year term of supervised release, $100 special assessment. Count II charges the defendant with use and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on or about January 13, 2021.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is life imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a five-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.

Contact Criminal Chief Mike Norris at 402-661-3700 for further information.

*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Tyler Caudill,&nbsp;age 19, of Phillips, Nebraska, is charged with unlawful user in possession of a firearm on or about May 4, 2021.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;

*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Elmer Moises De La Rosa-Juares,&nbsp;age 42, is charged with illegal reentry after deportation on or about September 4, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 2 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.

*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Matias Garcia-Paiz,&nbsp;age 49, is charged in a six-count Indictment.&nbsp; Count I charges Garcia-Paiz with aggravated identity theft on or about June 5, 2020.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 2 years’ consecutive imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count II charges the defendant with bank fraud, on or about June 5, 2020.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 30 years’ imprisonment, $1,000,000 fine, a five-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count III charges Garcia-Paiz with false claim of citizenship on or about September 2, 2020.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 3 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count IV charges the defendant with false representation of a social security number with intent to deceive on or about September 2, 2020.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 5 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Count V charges Garcia-Paiz with use of immigration document not lawfully issued on or about September 2, 2020.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 5 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count VI charges the defendant with reentry of a removed alien on or about April 30, 2021.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 2 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;

*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Leslie J. Graber,&nbsp;age 33, is charged in a two-count Indictment.&nbsp; Count I charges Graber with felon in possession of a firearm on or about August 13, 2020.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count II charges the defendant with possession of a stolen firearm on or about August 13, 2020.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Amber Lewis, age 38, of Pawnee City, Nebraska, is charged in a three-count Indictment.&nbsp; Count I charges Lewis with forgery, counterfeiting in relation to money orders beginning on or about June 5, 2020, and June 17, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 5 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment for each count.&nbsp; Count II charges the defendant with forgery, counterfeiting in relation to money orders beginning on or about June 5, 2020, and June 24, 2020.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 5 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment for each count.&nbsp; Count III charges the defendant with forgery, counterfeiting in relation to money orders beginning on or about June 29, 2020,&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 5 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment for each count.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Antonio Lopez Paiz, a/k/a Eduardo Garcia Zayas, a/k/a Eduardo Jose Garcia Zayas a/k/a Anthony Alexander Lopez&nbsp;age 33, is charged with illegal reentry after deportation on or about April 28, 2021. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 2 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.

*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Juan Carlos Lopez-Balbuena,&nbsp;age 42, is charged with illegal reentry after deportation on or about September 4, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 2 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.

*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Paw Moo, age 28, of Omaha, is charged with trafficking in counterfeit goods or services beginning on or about October, 2020, and continuing to on or about March 23, 2021. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, $2,000,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment for each count.

There is also an allegation to forfeit United States currency seized on or about February 23, 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;

*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Brandon L. Parmentier, age 31, is charged in a two-count Indictment.&nbsp; Count I charges Parmentier with possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) and 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (mixture) on or about September 11, 2020.&nbsp;&nbsp;The maximum possible penalty if convicted is life imprisonment, $10,000,000 fine, a five-year term of supervised release, $100 special assessment. Count II charges the defendant with possession of a firearm by a felon on or about April 2, 2021.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.

*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Arash Patrick Rasti, age 36, &nbsp;and&nbsp;Rodolfo Perez,&nbsp;age 24,&nbsp; are charged in a three-count Indictment.&nbsp; Count I charges the Rasti and Perez with conspiracy to distribute to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) on or about February 17, 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;The maximum possible penalty if convicted is life imprisonment, $10,000,000 fine, a five-year term of supervised release, $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count II charges the defendants with possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) on or about February 17, 2021. &nbsp;The maximum possible penalty if convicted is life imprisonment, $10,000,000 fine, a five-year term of supervised release, $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count III charges the defendants with possession of a firearm during a drug trafficking crime on or about February 17, 2021.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is life imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a five-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.

*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Eric C. Saul,&nbsp;age 37, of Omaha, is charged with possession of a ammunition by prohibited person on or about May 3, 2021.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;

*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Juan Manuel Serrano-Romo,&nbsp;age 42, is charged with illegal reentry after deportation on or about May 6, 2021. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 2 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.

*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Lawrence A. Smith, age 27, is charged with failure to register as a sex offender beginning on or about August, 2020 continuing to on or about May 19, 2021.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, life term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment, and $5,000 additional special assessment.&nbsp;

*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Prince L. Spellman,&nbsp;age 37, of Omaha, is charged in a three-count Indictment.&nbsp; Count I charges Spellman with possession with intent to distribute cocaine, PCP and fentanyl on or about March 9, 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 20 years’ imprisonment, $1,000,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count II charges the defendant with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on or about March 9, 2021.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is life imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a five-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count III charges the defendant with felon in possession of a firearm on or about March 9, 2021.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.

*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Robert Sullivan,&nbsp;age 44, of Omaha, is charged in a two-count Indictment.&nbsp; Count I charges Sullivan with possession with intent to distribute 5 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) on or about January 26, 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 40 years’ imprisonment, $5,000,000 fine, a four-year term of supervised release, $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count II charges the defendant with felon in possession of a firearm on or about January 26, 2021.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.

*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; David Wesley Swanson,&nbsp;age 36, of Wahoo, Nebraska, is charged with possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) on or about July 7, 2020.&nbsp;&nbsp;The maximum possible penalty if convicted is life imprisonment, $20,000,000 fine, an eight-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;

*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Shaquille A. Thornhill, age 27, of Brooklyn, New York, is charged with coercion and enticement of a minor beginning on or about April 15, 2021 through on or about May 11, 2021.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is life imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;

News Release US Attorney's Office-OmahaActing United States Attorney Jan W. Sharp announced the federal Grand Jury for the District of Nebraska has returned 20 unsealed Indictments charging 21 defendants. Indictments are charging documents that contain one or more individual counts that are merely accusations, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Andrew Isaac Abrams, age 41, of Tucson, Arizona, is charged in a four-count Indictment.&nbsp; Counts one through four charge the defendant with transmission of an interstate communication containing a threat to injure the person of another on or about April 23, 2021.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 5 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment for each count.&nbsp;Contact Criminal Chief Mike Norris at 402-661-3700 for further information.*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Alberto Inocente Argueta Cordova, age 29, is charged with illegal reentry after deportation on or about April 19, 2021.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 2 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.Contact Criminal Chief Mike Norris at 402-661-3700 for further information.*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Bobby Joe Baer, is charged in a two-count Indictment.&nbsp; Count I charges Baer with possession with intent to distribute 5 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) on or about January 13, 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 40 years’ imprisonment, $5,000,000 fine, a four-year term of supervised release, $100 special assessment. Count II charges the defendant with use and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on or about January 13, 2021.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is life imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a five-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.Contact Criminal Chief Mike Norris at 402-661-3700 for further information.*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Tyler Caudill,&nbsp;age 19, of Phillips, Nebraska, is charged with unlawful user in possession of a firearm on or about May 4, 2021.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;Contact Criminal Chief Mike Norris at 402-661-3700 for further information.*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Elmer Moises De La Rosa-Juares,&nbsp;age 42, is charged with illegal reentry after deportation on or about September 4, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 2 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.Contact Criminal Chief Mike Norris at 402-661-3700 for further information.*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Matias Garcia-Paiz,&nbsp;age 49, is charged in a six-count Indictment.&nbsp; Count I charges Garcia-Paiz with aggravated identity theft on or about June 5, 2020.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 2 years’ consecutive imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count II charges the defendant with bank fraud, on or about June 5, 2020.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 30 years’ imprisonment, $1,000,000 fine, a five-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count III charges Garcia-Paiz with false claim of citizenship on or about September 2, 2020.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 3 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count IV charges the defendant with false representation of a social security number with intent to deceive on or about September 2, 2020.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 5 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Count V charges Garcia-Paiz with use of immigration document not lawfully issued on or about September 2, 2020.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 5 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count VI charges the defendant with reentry of a removed alien on or about April 30, 2021.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 2 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;Contact Criminal Chief Mike Norris at 402-661-3700 for further information.*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Leslie J. Graber,&nbsp;age 33, is charged in a two-count Indictment.&nbsp; Count I charges Graber with felon in possession of a firearm on or about August 13, 2020.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count II charges the defendant with possession of a stolen firearm on or about August 13, 2020.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Contact Criminal Chief Mike Norris at 402-661-3700 for further information.*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Amber Lewis, age 38, of Pawnee City, Nebraska, is charged in a three-count Indictment.&nbsp; Count I charges Lewis with forgery, counterfeiting in relation to money orders beginning on or about June 5, 2020, and June 17, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 5 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment for each count.&nbsp; Count II charges the defendant with forgery, counterfeiting in relation to money orders beginning on or about June 5, 2020, and June 24, 2020.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 5 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment for each count.&nbsp; Count III charges the defendant with forgery, counterfeiting in relation to money orders beginning on or about June 29, 2020,&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 5 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment for each count.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Contact Criminal Chief Mike Norris at 402-661-3700 for further information.*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Antonio Lopez Paiz, a/k/a Eduardo Garcia Zayas, a/k/a Eduardo Jose Garcia Zayas a/k/a Anthony Alexander Lopez&nbsp;age 33, is charged with illegal reentry after deportation on or about April 28, 2021. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 2 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.Contact Criminal Chief Mike Norris at 402-661-3700 for further information.*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Juan Carlos Lopez-Balbuena,&nbsp;age 42, is charged with illegal reentry after deportation on or about September 4, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 2 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.Contact Criminal Chief Mike Norris at 402-661-3700 for further information.*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Paw Moo, age 28, of Omaha, is charged with trafficking in counterfeit goods or services beginning on or about October, 2020, and continuing to on or about March 23, 2021. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, $2,000,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment for each count.There is also an allegation to forfeit United States currency seized on or about February 23, 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;Contact Criminal Chief Mike Norris at 402-661-3700 for further information.*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Brandon L. Parmentier, age 31, is charged in a two-count Indictment.&nbsp; Count I charges Parmentier with possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) and 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (mixture) on or about September 11, 2020.&nbsp;&nbsp;The maximum possible penalty if convicted is life imprisonment, $10,000,000 fine, a five-year term of supervised release, $100 special assessment. Count II charges the defendant with possession of a firearm by a felon on or about April 2, 2021.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.Contact Criminal Chief Mike Norris at 402-661-3700 for further information.*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Arash Patrick Rasti, age 36, &nbsp;and&nbsp;Rodolfo Perez,&nbsp;age 24,&nbsp; are charged in a three-count Indictment.&nbsp; Count I charges the Rasti and Perez with conspiracy to distribute to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) on or about February 17, 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;The maximum possible penalty if convicted is life imprisonment, $10,000,000 fine, a five-year term of supervised release, $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count II charges the defendants with possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) on or about February 17, 2021. &nbsp;The maximum possible penalty if convicted is life imprisonment, $10,000,000 fine, a five-year term of supervised release, $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count III charges the defendants with possession of a firearm during a drug trafficking crime on or about February 17, 2021.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is life imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a five-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.Contact Criminal Chief Mike Norris at 402-661-3700 for further information.*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Eric C. Saul,&nbsp;age 37, of Omaha, is charged with possession of a ammunition by prohibited person on or about May 3, 2021.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;Contact Criminal Chief Mike Norris at 402-661-3700 for further information.*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Juan Manuel Serrano-Romo,&nbsp;age 42, is charged with illegal reentry after deportation on or about May 6, 2021. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 2 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.Contact Criminal Chief Mike Norris at 402-661-3700 for further information.*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Lawrence A. Smith, age 27, is charged with failure to register as a sex offender beginning on or about August, 2020 continuing to on or about May 19, 2021.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, life term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment, and $5,000 additional special assessment.&nbsp;Contact Criminal Chief Mike Norris at 402-661-3700 for further information.*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Prince L. Spellman,&nbsp;age 37, of Omaha, is charged in a three-count Indictment.&nbsp; Count I charges Spellman with possession with intent to distribute cocaine, PCP and fentanyl on or about March 9, 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 20 years’ imprisonment, $1,000,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count II charges the defendant with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on or about March 9, 2021.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is life imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a five-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count III charges the defendant with felon in possession of a firearm on or about March 9, 2021.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.Contact Criminal Chief Mike Norris at 402-661-3700 for further information.*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Robert Sullivan,&nbsp;age 44, of Omaha, is charged in a two-count Indictment.&nbsp; Count I charges Sullivan with possession with intent to distribute 5 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) on or about January 26, 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 40 years’ imprisonment, $5,000,000 fine, a four-year term of supervised release, $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count II charges the defendant with felon in possession of a firearm on or about January 26, 2021.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.Contact Criminal Chief Mike Norris at 402-661-3700 for further information.*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; David Wesley Swanson,&nbsp;age 36, of Wahoo, Nebraska, is charged with possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) on or about July 7, 2020.&nbsp;&nbsp;The maximum possible penalty if convicted is life imprisonment, $20,000,000 fine, an eight-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;Contact Criminal Chief Mike Norris at 402-661-3700 for further information.*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Shaquille A. Thornhill, age 27, of Brooklyn, New York, is charged with coercion and enticement of a minor beginning on or about April 15, 2021 through on or about May 11, 2021.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is life imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;Contact Criminal Chief Mike Norris at 402-661-3700 for further information.

Dist. of Nebraska Grand Jury indictments 

By Scott Carlson-North Platte Post

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-A North Platte man was arrested on charges stemming from an incident in March.

According to police, on March 21 at 9:40 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 4000 Block of Bretwood Court for a disturbance.&nbsp; 

Police said upon arrival, officers learned that Matthew McCarthy, 43, was inside the residence causing a disturbance.&nbsp; It was reported that McCarthy became upset and had a long wooden handled tool with a metal end, in his possession.&nbsp; 

Police said McCarthy was using the tool to cause damage to the floor of the residence and also swung it at the victim prior to officers arriving on the scene.&nbsp; 

Police said officers made contact with McCarthy and placed him under arrest without further incident.&nbsp; &nbsp; 

During the investigation, it was learned that several juveniles were inside the residence and witnessed the incident.&nbsp; Although unharmed physically, the juveniles were visibly upset by what they witnessed, according to police.&nbsp; 

As a result, McCarthy was incarcerated at the Lincoln County Detention Center for terroristic threats, child abuse, and criminal mischief.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Police said on March 21, an investigation was opened with the Department of Health and Human Services.&nbsp;

According to police, during the investigation, hair follicle samples were obtained from the&nbsp;juvenile children which were in McCarthy's custody at the time of the incident.&nbsp; Lab testing confirmed&nbsp;that the juveniles had been exposed to methamphetamine.&nbsp; 

Probable cause was established to arrest McCarthy and, after several attempts&nbsp;to locate him, he was taken into custody on May 19 for child abuse.&nbsp; 

McCarthy was incarcerated at the Lincoln County Detention Center.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621609352928.png" alt="McCarthy" />
 <figcaption>McCarthy</figcaption>
 </figure>By Scott Carlson-North Platte PostNORTH PLATTE, Neb.-A North Platte man was arrested on charges stemming from an incident in March.According to police, on March 21 at 9:40 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 4000 Block of Bretwood Court for a disturbance.&nbsp; Police said upon arrival, officers learned that Matthew McCarthy, 43, was inside the residence causing a disturbance.&nbsp; It was reported that McCarthy became upset and had a long wooden handled tool with a metal end, in his possession.&nbsp; Police said McCarthy was using the tool to cause damage to the floor of the residence and also swung it at the victim prior to officers arriving on the scene.&nbsp; Police said officers made contact with McCarthy and placed him under arrest without further incident.&nbsp; &nbsp; During the investigation, it was learned that several juveniles were inside the residence and witnessed the incident.&nbsp; Although unharmed physically, the juveniles were visibly upset by what they witnessed, according to police.&nbsp; As a result, McCarthy was incarcerated at the Lincoln County Detention Center for terroristic threats, child abuse, and criminal mischief.&nbsp;&nbsp;Police said on March 21, an investigation was opened with the Department of Health and Human Services.&nbsp; According to police, during the investigation, hair follicle samples were obtained from the&nbsp;juvenile children which were in McCarthy's custody at the time of the incident.&nbsp; Lab testing confirmed&nbsp;that the juveniles had been exposed to methamphetamine.&nbsp; Probable cause was established to arrest McCarthy and, after several attempts&nbsp;to locate him, he was taken into custody on May 19 for child abuse.&nbsp; McCarthy was incarcerated at the Lincoln County Detention Center.&nbsp;&nbsp;

North Platte man accused of exposing children to meth

Columbus – Summer activities will soon be underway and with people getting back out to their favorite lake spots, Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) wants boaters to remember safe boating practices and the importance of stopping the spread of invasive species.

 Invasive species, such as zebra mussels, can very easily be spread from one pond or lake to another if boat owners don’t make sure all the water has been emptied out of their boat at each location it’s used. When zebra mussels get into a waterway, they stick to every surface available and begin multiplying at a rapid pace, many times clogging intake structures to facilities. These reasons are why boaters should always clean, drain and dry their watercraft whenever they’re done using it.

 “As people begin to boat and enjoy summer activities, it’s vital that we prevent the spread of invasive species like zebra mussels in NPPD’s water resources, such as Lake Maloney or the Sutherland Reservoir,” says NPPD Director of Corporate Environmental and Water Resources Joe Citta. “If zebra mussels were to get into our water resources, they could damage or cause issues at any of the electric generating plants that use them.”

 Lake Maloney, the Sutherland Reservoir, and a portion of Lake Ogallala are all part of the Sutherland Canal system, which provides cooling water for Gerald Gentleman Station and powers the North Platte Hydro. The canal system is fed from water out of Lake McConaughey and eventually ends up in the South Platte River. 

Safety should also be front-of-mind when using NPPD’s water resources for recreational purposes, and the public should follow all regulations established and enforced by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. Fishing along the Sutherland Canal is a popular activity, but the steep banks and fast-moving waters can be extremely dangerous if anyone were to fall in the canal. As a safety precaution when fishing along these areas, it is encouraged to bring another person along or let a family or friend know when and where you are going to be there, and always have a life jacket when near the water. 

More information can be found in the video linked here.

Columbus – Summer activities will soon be underway and with people getting back out to their favorite lake spots, Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) wants boaters to remember safe boating practices and the importance of stopping the spread of invasive species. Invasive species, such as zebra mussels, can very easily be spread from one pond or lake to another if boat owners don’t make sure all the water has been emptied out of their boat at each location it’s used. When zebra mussels get into a waterway, they stick to every surface available and begin multiplying at a rapid pace, many times clogging intake structures to facilities. These reasons are why boaters should always clean, drain and dry their watercraft whenever they’re done using it. “As people begin to boat and enjoy summer activities, it’s vital that we prevent the spread of invasive species like zebra mussels in NPPD’s water resources, such as Lake Maloney or the Sutherland Reservoir,” says NPPD Director of Corporate Environmental and Water Resources Joe Citta. “If zebra mussels were to get into our water resources, they could damage or cause issues at any of the electric generating plants that use them.” Lake Maloney, the Sutherland Reservoir, and a portion of Lake Ogallala are all part of the Sutherland Canal system, which provides cooling water for Gerald Gentleman Station and powers the North Platte Hydro. The canal system is fed from water out of Lake McConaughey and eventually ends up in the South Platte River. Safety should also be front-of-mind when using NPPD’s water resources for recreational purposes, and the public should follow all regulations established and enforced by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. Fishing along the Sutherland Canal is a popular activity, but the steep banks and fast-moving waters can be extremely dangerous if anyone were to fall in the canal. As a safety precaution when fishing along these areas, it is encouraged to bring another person along or let a family or friend know when and where you are going to be there, and always have a life jacket when near the water. More information can be found in the video linked here.

Practice safety on NPPD waterways including Lake McConaughey, Lake Ogallala

Here is the latest Nebraskaland Days Calendar of Events Update with Scott Carlson and David Fudge. This week, it's all about the events for the kiddos. Listen for details.

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Nebraskaland Days Calendar of Events Update (May 21, 2021)

Lawmakers approved a bill May 20 that increases state park entry fees for nonresidents.

Introduced by Venango Sen. Dan Hughes,&nbsp;<a href="http://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/search_by_number.php?DocumentNumber=LB336&amp;Legislature=107th" target="_blank">LB336</a>&nbsp;sets the annual permit fee for a nonresident motor vehicle at twice the fee for a resident motor vehicle or $60, whichever is greater.

It sets the fee for a temporary permit for a nonresident motor vehicle at twice the fee for a resident motor vehicle or $12, whichever is greater.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621559791444.png" alt="Lake Ogallala (Photo: Outdoors Nebraska/Game and Parks)" />
 <figcaption>Lake Ogallala (Photo: Outdoors Nebraska/Game and Parks)</figcaption>
 </figure>From the Unicameral UpdateLawmakers approved a bill May 20 that increases state park entry fees for nonresidents.Introduced by Venango Sen. Dan Hughes,&nbsp;<a href="http://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/search_by_number.php?DocumentNumber=LB336&amp;Legislature=107th" target="_blank">LB336</a>&nbsp;sets the annual permit fee for a nonresident motor vehicle at twice the fee for a resident motor vehicle or $60, whichever is greater.It sets the fee for a temporary permit for a nonresident motor vehicle at twice the fee for a resident motor vehicle or $12, whichever is greater.LB336 passed on a vote of 49-0.

Nebraska lawmakers increase nonresident park fees

More Nebraskans temporarily are eligible for the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly known as food stamps, after passage of a bill May 20.

Nebraska families making up to 165 percent of the federal poverty level are eligible for SNAP benefits under&nbsp;<a href="http://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/search_by_number.php?DocumentNumber=LB108&amp;Legislature=107th" target="_blank">LB108</a>, introduced by Sen. John McCollister of Omaha. Previously, a family was eligible for the program with a gross income of 130 percent or less of FPL and an adjusted net income — after deducting expenses such as housing and child care — of 100 percent of FPL or less.

LB108 does not change the net income standard, which is set by the federal government. SNAP benefits are entirely funded by the federal government and all administrative costs associated with LB108 will be covered through the federal American Rescue Plan Act.

To the extent that federal funds are available, newly eligible Nebraskans will be encouraged to participate in SNAP Next Step — a state Department of Labor program that assists unemployed individuals in finding work.

Expanded SNAP eligibility under the bill will terminate Sept. 30, 2023, when the gross income eligibility limit will return to the previous level.

LB108 passed on a 33-11 vote and takes effect immediately.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/10/1571410354379.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>From the Unicameral UpdateMore Nebraskans temporarily are eligible for the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly known as food stamps, after passage of a bill May 20.Nebraska families making up to 165 percent of the federal poverty level are eligible for SNAP benefits under&nbsp;<a href="http://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/search_by_number.php?DocumentNumber=LB108&amp;Legislature=107th" target="_blank">LB108</a>, introduced by Sen. John McCollister of Omaha. Previously, a family was eligible for the program with a gross income of 130 percent or less of FPL and an adjusted net income — after deducting expenses such as housing and child care — of 100 percent of FPL or less.LB108 does not change the net income standard, which is set by the federal government. SNAP benefits are entirely funded by the federal government and all administrative costs associated with LB108 will be covered through the federal American Rescue Plan Act.To the extent that federal funds are available, newly eligible Nebraskans will be encouraged to participate in SNAP Next Step — a state Department of Labor program that assists unemployed individuals in finding work.Expanded SNAP eligibility under the bill will terminate Sept. 30, 2023, when the gross income eligibility limit will return to the previous level.LB108 passed on a 33-11 vote and takes effect immediately.

SNAP benefits temporarily expanded in Nebraska

Lawmakers passed a bill May20 that increases certification and training standards for Nebraska law enforcement officers.

Under&nbsp;<a href="http://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/search_by_number.php?DocumentNumber=LB51&amp;Legislature=107th" target="_blank">LB51</a>, sponsored by Omaha Sen. Steve Lathrop, the current 20 hours of annual continuing education required of all officers increases to 28 hours in 2022, and 32 hours in 2023 and subsequent years.

The bill requires a psychological evaluation of any applicant who has not worked previously in law enforcement to determine fitness for duty. Applicants seeking entry-level law enforcement certification will be required to complete de-escalation training related to mental health behaviors, substance abuse, anti-bias, implicit bias and crisis communication.

An applicant seeking certification as a law enforcement officer will be required to testify under oath that their certification has never been revoked or suspended in another jurisdiction and they have not been separated from employment or disciplined for serious misconduct or a violation of their oath of office, code of ethics or statutory duties.

LB51 also authorizes the appointment of noncertified conditional officers, pending acceptance into a formal law enforcement training program. These officers will discharge their duties under the direct supervision of a field training officer and be restricted from carrying a firearm.

A noncertified conditional officer may, only with direct supervision and guidance from a training officer, ride in a marked police cruiser, make arrests, interview suspects, victims or witnesses or carry out other law enforcement functions. The bill places a 16-week restriction on a noncertified conditional officer’s service.

The Nebraska Commission on Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice will prioritize smaller law enforcement agencies when awarding grants to offset the costs of accreditation and training.

LB51 also contains provisions of LB601, originally sponsored by Omaha Sen. Terrell McKinney.

Those provisions require the Nebraska Commission on Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice to post information on its public website regarding law enforcement officers who have voluntarily surrendered their certification or had it revoked, been convicted of or pleaded guilty or no contest to a felony or Class I misdemeanor or been found to have engaged in serious misconduct.

LB51 also prohibits a police officer from intentionally using a chokehold on a person, except when deadly force is authorized.

Similarly, an officer is prohibited from using a carotid restraint control hold — a method of rendering a person unconscious by restricting blood flow by compressing the carotid arteries in the neck — on any person unless the officer believes the individual would cause death or bodily injury to others or deadly force is authorized and the officer is trained in the restraint technique.

Finally, the bill requires the commission to develop accreditation standards for law enforcement agencies. Beginning Jan. 1, 2023, the commission will publish a list of unaccredited agencies annually. An unaccredited law enforcement agency will be ineligible to receive loans, grant funds or donations from the commission until it achieves accreditation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618594017922.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From the Unicameral UpdateLawmakers passed a bill May20 that increases certification and training standards for Nebraska law enforcement officers.Under&nbsp;<a href="http://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/search_by_number.php?DocumentNumber=LB51&amp;Legislature=107th" target="_blank">LB51</a>, sponsored by Omaha Sen. Steve Lathrop, the current 20 hours of annual continuing education required of all officers increases to 28 hours in 2022, and 32 hours in 2023 and subsequent years.The bill requires a psychological evaluation of any applicant who has not worked previously in law enforcement to determine fitness for duty. Applicants seeking entry-level law enforcement certification will be required to complete de-escalation training related to mental health behaviors, substance abuse, anti-bias, implicit bias and crisis communication.An applicant seeking certification as a law enforcement officer will be required to testify under oath that their certification has never been revoked or suspended in another jurisdiction and they have not been separated from employment or disciplined for serious misconduct or a violation of their oath of office, code of ethics or statutory duties.LB51 also authorizes the appointment of noncertified conditional officers, pending acceptance into a formal law enforcement training program. These officers will discharge their duties under the direct supervision of a field training officer and be restricted from carrying a firearm.A noncertified conditional officer may, only with direct supervision and guidance from a training officer, ride in a marked police cruiser, make arrests, interview suspects, victims or witnesses or carry out other law enforcement functions. The bill places a 16-week restriction on a noncertified conditional officer’s service.The Nebraska Commission on Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice will prioritize smaller law enforcement agencies when awarding grants to offset the costs of accreditation and training.LB51 also contains provisions of LB601, originally sponsored by Omaha Sen. Terrell McKinney.Those provisions require the Nebraska Commission on Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice to post information on its public website regarding law enforcement officers who have voluntarily surrendered their certification or had it revoked, been convicted of or pleaded guilty or no contest to a felony or Class I misdemeanor or been found to have engaged in serious misconduct.LB51 also prohibits a police officer from intentionally using a chokehold on a person, except when deadly force is authorized.Similarly, an officer is prohibited from using a carotid restraint control hold — a method of rendering a person unconscious by restricting blood flow by compressing the carotid arteries in the neck — on any person unless the officer believes the individual would cause death or bodily injury to others or deadly force is authorized and the officer is trained in the restraint technique.Finally, the bill requires the commission to develop accreditation standards for law enforcement agencies. Beginning Jan. 1, 2023, the commission will publish a list of unaccredited agencies annually. An unaccredited law enforcement agency will be ineligible to receive loans, grant funds or donations from the commission until it achieves accreditation.LB51 passed on a 41-1 vote.

Nebraska lawmakers approve bill for increased law enforcement standards

As the nation climbs out of this devastating pandemic and more people return to some of their favorite activities,&nbsp;the Red Cross is experiencing lower blood donor turnout, causing concern for the sufficiency of the blood supply this month and throughout the summer.&nbsp;The need for lifesaving blood transfusions never takes a break.&nbsp;It’s critical to have blood ready to go when every second counts.

It is important to note that&nbsp;COVID-19 vaccinated individuals&nbsp;can&nbsp;donate blood and platelets.

For many patients in hospitals awaiting surgeries and transplants, battling cancer, or recovering from traumatic accidents, the need for blood continues. May is Trauma Awareness Month and blood donors are essential to the health and well-being of our nation.&nbsp;Patients – and their families rallying behind them – are counting on the generosity of blood donors to share their health.

If a donor is eligible and feeling well, they can make an appointment today by visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://redcrossblood.org/" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org</a>, using the Red Cross Blood Donor App or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).&nbsp;

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 </figure>News Release American Red CrossAs the nation climbs out of this devastating pandemic and more people return to some of their favorite activities,&nbsp;the Red Cross is experiencing lower blood donor turnout, causing concern for the sufficiency of the blood supply this month and throughout the summer.&nbsp;The need for lifesaving blood transfusions never takes a break.&nbsp;It’s critical to have blood ready to go when every second counts.It is important to note that&nbsp;COVID-19 vaccinated individuals&nbsp;can&nbsp;donate blood and platelets.For many patients in hospitals awaiting surgeries and transplants, battling cancer, or recovering from traumatic accidents, the need for blood continues. May is Trauma Awareness Month and blood donors are essential to the health and well-being of our nation.&nbsp;Patients – and their families rallying behind them – are counting on the generosity of blood donors to share their health.If a donor is eligible and feeling well, they can make an appointment today by visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://redcrossblood.org/" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org</a>, using the Red Cross Blood Donor App or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).&nbsp;

American Red Cross facing shortage of donors

Some warrants may no longer be active. Never attempt to apprehend a wanted subject, contact law enforcement.

As of May 20, 2021Some warrants may no longer be active. Never attempt to apprehend a wanted subject, contact law enforcement.<figure>
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Dawson County's Most Wanted

Country Mega-Star Garth Brooks called the Q Country Classics Morning Show ahead of the release of tickets to concert at UNL's Memorial Stadium in August. Tickets go on-sale Friday, May 21st at 10am Sharp via www.ticketmaster.com/garthbrooks

<figure>
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 </figure><div><iframe title="🎧Post Podcast: Garth Brooks with Tony Lama" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=cumfe-1040615-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=6&btn-skin=2"></iframe></div>Country Mega-Star Garth Brooks called the Q Country Classics Morning Show ahead of the release of tickets to concert at UNL's Memorial Stadium in August. Tickets go on-sale Friday, May 21st at 10am Sharp via www.ticketmaster.com/garthbrooks

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