WASHINGTON (AP) — A unanimous Supreme Court ruled Monday that thousands of people living in the U.S. for humanitarian reasons are ineligible to apply to become permanent residents.

Justice Elena Kagan&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/20798529-sanchez-v-mayorkas" target="_blank">wrote for the court</a>&nbsp;that federal immigration law prohibits people who entered the country illegally and now have Temporary Protected Status from seeking “green cards” to remain in the country permanently.

The designation applies to people who come from countries ravaged by war or disaster. It protects them from deportation and allows them to work legally. There are 400,000 people from 12 countries with TPS status.

The outcome in a case involving a couple from El Salvador who have been in the U.S. since the 1990s turned on whether people who entered the country illegally and were given humanitarian protections were ever “admitted” into the United States under immigration law.

Kagan wrote that they were not. “The TPS program gives foreign nationals nonimmigrant status, but it does not admit them. So the conferral of TPS does not make an unlawful entrant...eligible” for a green card, she wrote.

The House of Representatives already has passed legislation that would make it possible for TPS recipients to become permanent residents, Kagan noted. The bill faces uncertain prospects in the Senate.

President Joe Biden has said he supports the change in the law. But his administration, like the Trump administration, argued that current immigration law doesn’t permit people who entered the country illegally to apply for permanent residency.

On the other side were immigrant groups that argued many people who came to the U.S. for humanitarian reasons have lived in the country for many years, given birth to American citizens and put down roots in the U.S.

Federal courts around the country had come to conflicting decisions about whether the grant of TPS status was, by itself, enough to enable an immigrant to try to obtain permanent residency.

Former President Donald Trump tried to cancel the program for many immigrants, stoking fear they could be sent back to their homelands where they haven’t lived in many years.

“All of these families that are established in the United States and have lived in our communities for decades faced a very real threat,” said Lisa Koop, a lawyer with the National Immigrant Justice Center who also teaches at Notre Dame’s law school.

In 2001, the U.S. gave Salvadoran migrants legal protection to remain in the U.S. after a series of earthquakes in their home country.

People from 11 other countries are similarly protected. They are: Haiti, Honduras, Myanmar, Nepal, Nicaragua, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Venezuela and Yemen.

Monday’s decision does not affect immigrants with TPS who initially entered the U.S. legally and then, say, overstayed their visa, Kagan noted. Because those people were legally admitted to the country and later were given humanitarian protections, they can seek to become permanent residents.

WASHINGTON (AP) — A unanimous Supreme Court ruled Monday that thousands of people living in the U.S. for humanitarian reasons are ineligible to apply to become permanent residents.Justice Elena Kagan&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/20798529-sanchez-v-mayorkas" target="_blank">wrote for the court</a>&nbsp;that federal immigration law prohibits people who entered the country illegally and now have Temporary Protected Status from seeking “green cards” to remain in the country permanently.The designation applies to people who come from countries ravaged by war or disaster. It protects them from deportation and allows them to work legally. There are 400,000 people from 12 countries with TPS status.The outcome in a case involving a couple from El Salvador who have been in the U.S. since the 1990s turned on whether people who entered the country illegally and were given humanitarian protections were ever “admitted” into the United States under immigration law.Kagan wrote that they were not. “The TPS program gives foreign nationals nonimmigrant status, but it does not admit them. So the conferral of TPS does not make an unlawful entrant...eligible” for a green card, she wrote.The House of Representatives already has passed legislation that would make it possible for TPS recipients to become permanent residents, Kagan noted. The bill faces uncertain prospects in the Senate.President Joe Biden has said he supports the change in the law. But his administration, like the Trump administration, argued that current immigration law doesn’t permit people who entered the country illegally to apply for permanent residency.On the other side were immigrant groups that argued many people who came to the U.S. for humanitarian reasons have lived in the country for many years, given birth to American citizens and put down roots in the U.S.Federal courts around the country had come to conflicting decisions about whether the grant of TPS status was, by itself, enough to enable an immigrant to try to obtain permanent residency.Former President Donald Trump tried to cancel the program for many immigrants, stoking fear they could be sent back to their homelands where they haven’t lived in many years.“All of these families that are established in the United States and have lived in our communities for decades faced a very real threat,” said Lisa Koop, a lawyer with the National Immigrant Justice Center who also teaches at Notre Dame’s law school.In 2001, the U.S. gave Salvadoran migrants legal protection to remain in the U.S. after a series of earthquakes in their home country.People from 11 other countries are similarly protected. They are: Haiti, Honduras, Myanmar, Nepal, Nicaragua, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Venezuela and Yemen.Monday’s decision does not affect immigrants with TPS who initially entered the U.S. legally and then, say, overstayed their visa, Kagan noted. Because those people were legally admitted to the country and later were given humanitarian protections, they can seek to become permanent residents.

Unanimous: Court rules against immigrants with temporary status

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. (AP) — Fisher-Price says it is recalling a model of its baby soothers after the deaths of four infants who were placed on their backs unrestrained in the devices and later found on their stomachs. 

In a joint statement with the Consumer Product Safety Commission, Fisher-Price said Friday it is recalling its 4-in-1 Rock ’n Glide Soothers, which are designed to mimic the motion of a baby being rocked in someone’s arms. 

The fatalities between April 2019 and February 2020 were a 4-month old from Missouri, a 2-month old from Nevada, a 2-month old from Michigan and an 11-week old from Colorado, according to the statement.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623089196601.png" alt="Fisher Price&nbsp; photo courtesy Consumer Products Safety Commission" />
 <figcaption>Fisher Price&nbsp; photo courtesy Consumer Products Safety Commission</figcaption>
 </figure>EL SEGUNDO, Calif. (AP) — Fisher-Price says it is recalling a model of its baby soothers after the deaths of four infants who were placed on their backs unrestrained in the devices and later found on their stomachs. In a joint statement with the Consumer Product Safety Commission, Fisher-Price said Friday it is recalling its 4-in-1 Rock ’n Glide Soothers, which are designed to mimic the motion of a baby being rocked in someone’s arms. The fatalities between April 2019 and February 2020 were a 4-month old from Missouri, a 2-month old from Nevada, a 2-month old from Michigan and an 11-week old from Colorado, according to the statement.

Fisher-Price recalls baby soothers after 4 infant deaths

ASHLAND, Neb. (AP) — A bison calf born last month at a safari park near Omaha is now on full display at the park, where it is roaming the grounds with its mother and the rest of the herd. 

The Omaha World-Herald reports that the auburn-colored calf was born May 11 at the park's Bison Plains. 

Bison young are lighter than adults and don't turn the characteristic dark brown of bison until they are several months old. 

Zookeepers have not directly interacted with the calf and do not yet know if it's male or female. The calf brings the herd's total to 32.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623086144473.png" alt="Photo:&nbsp;Josh Shandera, senior hoofstock keeper" />
 <figcaption>Photo:&nbsp;Josh Shandera, senior hoofstock keeper</figcaption>
 </figure>ASHLAND, Neb. (AP) — A bison calf born last month at a safari park near Omaha is now on full display at the park, where it is roaming the grounds with its mother and the rest of the herd. The Omaha World-Herald reports that the auburn-colored calf was born May 11 at the park's Bison Plains. Bison young are lighter than adults and don't turn the characteristic dark brown of bison until they are several months old. Zookeepers have not directly interacted with the calf and do not yet know if it's male or female. The calf brings the herd's total to 32.

Bison calf born last month now roaming Nebraska safari park

CAMDEN COUNTY —An 8-year-old Missouri boy died in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Saturday on Lake of the Ozarks.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a propeller from a 2017 Playcraft Tritoon driven by 34-year-old Timmy Isaac of Waynesville struck his 8-year-old son as the boy was exiting the rear of the boat.

He was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Allee-Holman-Howe Funeral Home in Camdenton. 

The accident occurred at the six mile mark of Glaize arm.&nbsp; Authorities released no additional details early Monday.

CAMDEN COUNTY —An 8-year-old Missouri boy died in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Saturday on Lake of the Ozarks.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a propeller from a 2017 Playcraft Tritoon driven by 34-year-old Timmy Isaac of Waynesville struck his 8-year-old son as the boy was exiting the rear of the boat.He was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Allee-Holman-Howe Funeral Home in Camdenton. The accident occurred at the six mile mark of Glaize arm.&nbsp; Authorities released no additional details early Monday.

8-year-old killed by boat propeller on Lake of the Ozarks

WESTON, Neb. (AP) — Sheriff's officials in eastern Nebraska say a woman has died in a rollover crash near the village of Weston.

The Saunders County Sheriff's Office says in a news release that the crash happened Sunday afternoon on a county road northwest of Weston. 

Deputies and local fire and rescue workers were called around 4:20 p.m. for a report of a rollover crash and found a sport utility vehicle at the scene with the driver, identified as Katie Weakly, 29, of Prague, pinned inside. 

Officials say Weakly had not been wearing a seat belt when the SUV went into a ditch and hit a tree. 

WESTON, Neb. (AP) — Sheriff's officials in eastern Nebraska say a woman has died in a rollover crash near the village of Weston. The Saunders County Sheriff's Office says in a news release that the crash happened Sunday afternoon on a county road northwest of Weston. Deputies and local fire and rescue workers were called around 4:20 p.m. for a report of a rollover crash and found a sport utility vehicle at the scene with the driver, identified as Katie Weakly, 29, of Prague, pinned inside. Officials say Weakly had not been wearing a seat belt when the SUV went into a ditch and hit a tree. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

Sheriff: Woman killed in rollover crash in eastern Nebraska

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — Officials say an earthquake occurred in southern South Dakota, though no damage was reported. 

The United States Geological Survey said the 3.7 magnitude quake happened at 10:25 a.m. Friday just north of the South Dakota border with Nebraska. 

The center of the earthquake was about 11 miles southeast of Fairfax.

 The agency says the earthquake occurred in a relatively sparsely populated region. 

About 12,000 people were exposed to “light shaking.” 

It's the third earthquake reported this year in South Dakota. 

Two earthquakes were reported last year in the state.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — Officials say an earthquake occurred in southern South Dakota, though no damage was reported. The United States Geological Survey said the 3.7 magnitude quake happened at 10:25 a.m. Friday just north of the South Dakota border with Nebraska. The center of the earthquake was about 11 miles southeast of Fairfax. The agency says the earthquake occurred in a relatively sparsely populated region. About 12,000 people were exposed to “light shaking.” It's the third earthquake reported this year in South Dakota. Two earthquakes were reported last year in the state.

No damage reported from earthquake in southern South Dakota

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court says it won’t take up a case that asked it to decide whether it’s sex discrimination for the government to require only men to register for the draft when they turn 18. In a statement on Monday, three justices said Congress is weighing whether to change the Military Selective Service Act, which requires men but not women to register for the draft. 

They said that was a reason for the court not to take the case. The question of whether it’s unconstitutional to require men but not women to register could be viewed as one with little practical impact. The last time there was a draft was during the Vietnam War, and the military has been all-volunteer since.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court is being asked to decide whether it’s sex discrimination for the government to require only men to register for the draft when they turn 18.

The question of whether it’s unconstitutional to require men but not women to register could be viewed as one with little practical impact. The last time there was a draft was during the Vietnam War, and the military has been all-volunteer since. But the registration requirement is one of the few remaining places where federal law treats men and women differently, and women’s groups are among those arguing that allowing it to stand is harmful.

The justices could say as soon as Monday whether they will hear&nbsp;<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/DocketPDF/20/20-928/165657/20210108100535699_NCFM%20Petition%20-%20Final.pdf" target="_blank">a case</a>&nbsp;involving the Military Selective Service Act, which requires men to register for the draft.

Ria Tabacco Mar, the director of the American Civil Liberties Union’s Women’s Rights Project, who is urging the court to take up the issue, says requiring men to register imposes a “serious burden on men that’s not being imposed on women.”

Men who do not&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sss.gov/" target="_blank">register&nbsp;</a>can lose eligibility for student loans and civil service jobs, and failing to register is also a felony punishable by a fine of up to $250,000 and five years in prison. But Tabacco Mar says the male-only requirement does more than that.

“It’s also sending a tremendously harmful message that women are less fit than men to serve their country in this particular way and conversely that men are less fit than women to stay home as caregivers in the event of an armed conflict. We think those stereotypes demean both men and women,” she said.

Even if the draft is never used again, retaining the men-only requirement sends a “really damaging message,” said Tabacco Mar, who represents the National Coalition For Men and two individual men challenging the law

A group of retired senior military officers and the National Organization for Women Foundation are among the others urging the court to take the case.

If the court agrees to hear the case, it wouldn’t be deciding whether women have to register, just whether the current system is constitutional. If it isn’t, then it would then be up to Congress to decide how to respond, either by passing a law requiring everyone to register or deciding registration is no longer necessary.

The issue of who has to register for the draft has been to the court before. In 1981, the court voted 6-3 to uphold the men-only registration requirement. At the time, the decision was something of an outlier because the court was regularly invalidating gender-based distinctions in cases about other areas of the law. Many of those cases were brought by the founding director of the ACLU’s Women’s Rights Project, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who became a justice in 1993.

The last time the high court considered the Military Selective Service Act, then-Justice William Rehnquist explained that the purpose of registration “was to prepare for a draft of combat troops.” He said that because women could not serve in combat, the law was not unlawful sex discrimination that violated the Constitution.

But military policy has changed. In 2013, the Department of Defense lifted the ban on women serving in combat. Two years later, the department said all military roles would be open to women without exception.

Just last year, a congressional commission concluded that the “time is right” to extend the obligation to register to women. “The current disparate treatment of women unacceptably excludes women from a fundamental civic obligation and reinforces gender stereotypes about the role of women, undermining national security,”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.inspire2serve.gov/sites/default/files/final-report/Final%20Report.pdf" target="_blank">the commission said in a report.</a>

The Biden administration is urging the justices not to take the case and to let Congress instead tackle the issue. Administration lawyers wrote in a brief that any “reconsideration of the constitutionality of the male-only registration requirement ... would be premature at this time” because Congress is “actively considering” the issue.

The Selective Service System, the agency that oversees registration, said in a statement that it doesn’t comment on pending litigation but that it is “capable of performing whatever mission Congress should mandate.”

If the court agrees to take the case, arguments wouldn’t happen until the fall at the earliest, after the court’s summer break. The court already has high-profile cases awaiting it then. They include a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-abortion-15-week-ban-5d066a9dc0030a4f8297711f341c9f5a">major challenge to abortion rights</a>&nbsp;and an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-guns-public-new-york-be5e3fe54da4eb3b9ca2337665974716">appeal to expand gun rights</a>.

The case about the draft is National Coalition For Men v. Selective Service System, 20-928.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622989198772.png" alt="The last time there was a draft was during the Vietnam War, and the military has been all-volunteer since.-photo courtesy U.S. Army Human Resources Command" />
 <figcaption>The last time there was a draft was during the Vietnam War, and the military has been all-volunteer since.-photo courtesy U.S. Army Human Resources Command</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court says it won’t take up a case that asked it to decide whether it’s sex discrimination for the government to require only men to register for the draft when they turn 18. In a statement on Monday, three justices said Congress is weighing whether to change the Military Selective Service Act, which requires men but not women to register for the draft. They said that was a reason for the court not to take the case. The question of whether it’s unconstitutional to require men but not women to register could be viewed as one with little practical impact. The last time there was a draft was during the Vietnam War, and the military has been all-volunteer since.---------WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court is being asked to decide whether it’s sex discrimination for the government to require only men to register for the draft when they turn 18.The question of whether it’s unconstitutional to require men but not women to register could be viewed as one with little practical impact. The last time there was a draft was during the Vietnam War, and the military has been all-volunteer since. But the registration requirement is one of the few remaining places where federal law treats men and women differently, and women’s groups are among those arguing that allowing it to stand is harmful.The justices could say as soon as Monday whether they will hear&nbsp;<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/DocketPDF/20/20-928/165657/20210108100535699_NCFM%20Petition%20-%20Final.pdf" target="_blank">a case</a>&nbsp;involving the Military Selective Service Act, which requires men to register for the draft.Ria Tabacco Mar, the director of the American Civil Liberties Union’s Women’s Rights Project, who is urging the court to take up the issue, says requiring men to register imposes a “serious burden on men that’s not being imposed on women.”Men who do not&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sss.gov/" target="_blank">register&nbsp;</a>can lose eligibility for student loans and civil service jobs, and failing to register is also a felony punishable by a fine of up to $250,000 and five years in prison. But Tabacco Mar says the male-only requirement does more than that.“It’s also sending a tremendously harmful message that women are less fit than men to serve their country in this particular way and conversely that men are less fit than women to stay home as caregivers in the event of an armed conflict. We think those stereotypes demean both men and women,” she said.Even if the draft is never used again, retaining the men-only requirement sends a “really damaging message,” said Tabacco Mar, who represents the National Coalition For Men and two individual men challenging the lawA group of retired senior military officers and the National Organization for Women Foundation are among the others urging the court to take the case.If the court agrees to hear the case, it wouldn’t be deciding whether women have to register, just whether the current system is constitutional. If it isn’t, then it would then be up to Congress to decide how to respond, either by passing a law requiring everyone to register or deciding registration is no longer necessary.The issue of who has to register for the draft has been to the court before. In 1981, the court voted 6-3 to uphold the men-only registration requirement. At the time, the decision was something of an outlier because the court was regularly invalidating gender-based distinctions in cases about other areas of the law. Many of those cases were brought by the founding director of the ACLU’s Women’s Rights Project, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who became a justice in 1993.The last time the high court considered the Military Selective Service Act, then-Justice William Rehnquist explained that the purpose of registration “was to prepare for a draft of combat troops.” He said that because women could not serve in combat, the law was not unlawful sex discrimination that violated the Constitution.But military policy has changed. In 2013, the Department of Defense lifted the ban on women serving in combat. Two years later, the department said all military roles would be open to women without exception.Just last year, a congressional commission concluded that the “time is right” to extend the obligation to register to women. “The current disparate treatment of women unacceptably excludes women from a fundamental civic obligation and reinforces gender stereotypes about the role of women, undermining national security,”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.inspire2serve.gov/sites/default/files/final-report/Final%20Report.pdf" target="_blank">the commission said in a report.</a>The Biden administration is urging the justices not to take the case and to let Congress instead tackle the issue. Administration lawyers wrote in a brief that any “reconsideration of the constitutionality of the male-only registration requirement ... would be premature at this time” because Congress is “actively considering” the issue.The Selective Service System, the agency that oversees registration, said in a statement that it doesn’t comment on pending litigation but that it is “capable of performing whatever mission Congress should mandate.”If the court agrees to take the case, arguments wouldn’t happen until the fall at the earliest, after the court’s summer break. The court already has high-profile cases awaiting it then. They include a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-abortion-15-week-ban-5d066a9dc0030a4f8297711f341c9f5a">major challenge to abortion rights</a>&nbsp;and an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-guns-public-new-york-be5e3fe54da4eb3b9ca2337665974716">appeal to expand gun rights</a>.The case about the draft is National Coalition For Men v. Selective Service System, 20-928.

Update: High court won't review men-only draft registration law

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Foreign keyboard criminals with scant fear of repercussions have paralyzed U.S. schools and hospitals, leaked highly sensitive police files, triggered&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ga-state-wire-business-c6ef4314af911fb58b8445d2b121e82d">fuel shortages</a>&nbsp;and, most recently, threatened&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jbs-sa-lifestyle-health-coronavirus-pandemic-technology-bf82114d3f54e5be2241bd5f9a0b2639">global food</a>&nbsp;supply chains.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/europe-technology-business-72f25f90d540e5a29b6e758ad89b35cc">escalating havoc&nbsp;</a>caused by ransomware gangs raises an obvious question: Why has the United States, believed to have the world’s greatest cyber capabilities, looked so powerless to protect its citizens from these kind of criminals operating with near impunity out of Russia and allied countries?

The answer is that there are numerous technological, legal and diplomatic hurdles to going after ransomware gangs. Until recently, it just hasn’t been a high priority for the U.S. government.

That has changed as the problem has grown well beyond an economic nuisance. President Joe Biden intends to confront Russia’s leader, Vladimir Putin, about Moscow’s harboring of ransomware criminals when the two men meet in Europe later this month. The Biden administration has also promised to boost defenses against attacks, improve efforts to prosecute those responsible and build diplomatic alliances to pressure countries that harbor ransomware gangs.

Calls are growing for the administration to direct U.S. intelligence agencies and the military to attack ransomware gangs’ technical infrastructure used for hacking, posting sensitive victim data on the dark web and storing digital currency payouts.

Fighting ransomware requires the nonlethal equivalent of the “global war on terrorism” launched after the Sept. 11 attacks, said John Riggi, a former FBI agent and senior adviser for cybersecurity and risk for the America Hospital Association. Its members have been hard hit by ransomware gangs during the coronavirus pandemic.

“It should include a combination of diplomatic, financial, law enforcement, intelligence operations, of course, and military operations,” Riggi said.

A public-private task force including Microsoft and Amazon made similar suggestions in an&nbsp;<a href="https://securityandtechnology.org/ransomwaretaskforce/report/" target="_blank">81-page report</a>&nbsp;that called for intelligence agencies and the Pentagon’s U.S. Cyber Command to work with other agencies to “prioritize ransomware disruption operations.”

“Take their infrastructure away, go after their wallets, their ability to cash out,” said Philip Reiner, a lead author of the report. He worked at the National Security Council during the Obama presidency and is now CEO at The Institute for Security and Technology.

But the difficulties of taking down ransomware gangs and other cybercriminals have long been clear. The FBI’s list of most-wanted cyber fugitives has grown at a rapid clip and now has more than 100 entries, many of whom are not exactly hiding. Evgeniy Bogachev, indicted nearly a decade ago for what prosecutors say was a wave of cyber bank thefts, lives in a Russian resort town and “is known to enjoy boating” on the Black Sea, according to the FBI’s wanted listing.

Ransomware gangs can move around, do not need much infrastructure to operate and can shield their identities. They also operate in a decentralized network. For instance, DarkSide, the group responsible for the Colonial Pipeline attack that led to fuel shortages in the South, rents out its ransomware software to partners to carry out attacks.

Katie Nickels, director of intelligence at the cybersecurity firm Red Canary, said identifying and disrupting ransomware criminals takes time and serious effort.

“A lot of people misunderstand that the government can’t just willy-nilly go out and press a button and say, well, nuke that computer,” she said. “Trying to attribute to a person in cyberspace is not an easy task, even for intelligence communities.”

Reiner said those limits do not mean the United States cannot still make progress against defeating ransomware, comparing it with America’s ability to degrade the terrorist group al-Qaida while not capturing its leader, Ayman al-Zawahiri, who took over after U.S. troops killed Osama bin Laden.

“We can fairly easily make the argument that al-Qaida no longer poses a threat to the homeland,” Reiner said. “So short of getting al-Zawahiri, you destroy his ability to actually operate. That’s what you can do to these (ransomware) guys.”

The White House has been vague about whether it plans to use offensive cyber measures against ransomware gangs. Press secretary Jen Psaki said Wednesday that “we’re not going to take options off the table,” but she did not elaborate. Her comments followed a ransomware attack by a Russian gang that caused outages at Brazil’s JBS SA, the second-largest producer of beef, pork and chicken in the United States.

Gen. Paul Nakasone, who leads U.S. Cyber Command and the National Security Agency, said at a recent symposium that he believes the U.S. will be “bringing the weight of our nation,” including the Defense Department, “to take down this (ransomware) infrastructure outside the United States.”

Sen. Angus King, an independent from Maine who is a legislative leader on cybersecurity issues, said the debate in Congress over how aggressive the U.S. needs to be against ransomware gangs, as well as state adversaries, will be “front and center of the next month or two.”

“To be honest, it’s complicated because you’re talking about using government agencies, government capabilities to go after private citizens in another country,” he said.

The U.S. is widely believed to have the best offensive cyber capabilities in the world, though details about such highly classified activities are scant. Documents leaked by former NSA contractor Edward Snowden show the U.S. conducted 231 offensive cyber operations in 2011. More than a decade ago a virus called Stuxnet attacked control units for centrifuges in an underground site in Iran, causing the sensitive devices to spin out of control and destroy themselves. The cyberattack was attributed to America and Israel.

U.S. policy called “persistent engagement” already authorizes cyberwarriors to engage hostile hackers in cyberspace and disrupt their operations with code. U.S. Cyber Command has launched offensive operations related to election security, including against Russian misinformation officials during U.S. midterm elections in 2018.

After the Colonial Pipeline attack, Biden promised that his administration was committed to bringing foreign cybercriminals to justice. Yet even as he was speaking from the White House, a different Russian-linked ransomware gang was leaking thousands of highly sensitive internal files — including deeply personal background checks — belonging to the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-police-technology-government-and-politics-1aedfcf42a8dc2b004ef610d0b57edb9">police department&nbsp;</a>in the nation’s capital. Experts believe it’s the worst ransomware attack against a U.S.-based law enforcement agency.

“We are not afraid of anyone,” the hackers wrote in a follow-up post.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622905486719.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — Foreign keyboard criminals with scant fear of repercussions have paralyzed U.S. schools and hospitals, leaked highly sensitive police files, triggered&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ga-state-wire-business-c6ef4314af911fb58b8445d2b121e82d">fuel shortages</a>&nbsp;and, most recently, threatened&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jbs-sa-lifestyle-health-coronavirus-pandemic-technology-bf82114d3f54e5be2241bd5f9a0b2639">global food</a>&nbsp;supply chains.The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/europe-technology-business-72f25f90d540e5a29b6e758ad89b35cc">escalating havoc&nbsp;</a>caused by ransomware gangs raises an obvious question: Why has the United States, believed to have the world’s greatest cyber capabilities, looked so powerless to protect its citizens from these kind of criminals operating with near impunity out of Russia and allied countries?The answer is that there are numerous technological, legal and diplomatic hurdles to going after ransomware gangs. Until recently, it just hasn’t been a high priority for the U.S. government.That has changed as the problem has grown well beyond an economic nuisance. President Joe Biden intends to confront Russia’s leader, Vladimir Putin, about Moscow’s harboring of ransomware criminals when the two men meet in Europe later this month. The Biden administration has also promised to boost defenses against attacks, improve efforts to prosecute those responsible and build diplomatic alliances to pressure countries that harbor ransomware gangs.Calls are growing for the administration to direct U.S. intelligence agencies and the military to attack ransomware gangs’ technical infrastructure used for hacking, posting sensitive victim data on the dark web and storing digital currency payouts.Fighting ransomware requires the nonlethal equivalent of the “global war on terrorism” launched after the Sept. 11 attacks, said John Riggi, a former FBI agent and senior adviser for cybersecurity and risk for the America Hospital Association. Its members have been hard hit by ransomware gangs during the coronavirus pandemic.“It should include a combination of diplomatic, financial, law enforcement, intelligence operations, of course, and military operations,” Riggi said.A public-private task force including Microsoft and Amazon made similar suggestions in an&nbsp;<a href="https://securityandtechnology.org/ransomwaretaskforce/report/" target="_blank">81-page report</a>&nbsp;that called for intelligence agencies and the Pentagon’s U.S. Cyber Command to work with other agencies to “prioritize ransomware disruption operations.”“Take their infrastructure away, go after their wallets, their ability to cash out,” said Philip Reiner, a lead author of the report. He worked at the National Security Council during the Obama presidency and is now CEO at The Institute for Security and Technology.But the difficulties of taking down ransomware gangs and other cybercriminals have long been clear. The FBI’s list of most-wanted cyber fugitives has grown at a rapid clip and now has more than 100 entries, many of whom are not exactly hiding. Evgeniy Bogachev, indicted nearly a decade ago for what prosecutors say was a wave of cyber bank thefts, lives in a Russian resort town and “is known to enjoy boating” on the Black Sea, according to the FBI’s wanted listing.Ransomware gangs can move around, do not need much infrastructure to operate and can shield their identities. They also operate in a decentralized network. For instance, DarkSide, the group responsible for the Colonial Pipeline attack that led to fuel shortages in the South, rents out its ransomware software to partners to carry out attacks.Katie Nickels, director of intelligence at the cybersecurity firm Red Canary, said identifying and disrupting ransomware criminals takes time and serious effort.“A lot of people misunderstand that the government can’t just willy-nilly go out and press a button and say, well, nuke that computer,” she said. “Trying to attribute to a person in cyberspace is not an easy task, even for intelligence communities.”Reiner said those limits do not mean the United States cannot still make progress against defeating ransomware, comparing it with America’s ability to degrade the terrorist group al-Qaida while not capturing its leader, Ayman al-Zawahiri, who took over after U.S. troops killed Osama bin Laden.“We can fairly easily make the argument that al-Qaida no longer poses a threat to the homeland,” Reiner said. “So short of getting al-Zawahiri, you destroy his ability to actually operate. That’s what you can do to these (ransomware) guys.”The White House has been vague about whether it plans to use offensive cyber measures against ransomware gangs. Press secretary Jen Psaki said Wednesday that “we’re not going to take options off the table,” but she did not elaborate. Her comments followed a ransomware attack by a Russian gang that caused outages at Brazil’s JBS SA, the second-largest producer of beef, pork and chicken in the United States.Gen. Paul Nakasone, who leads U.S. Cyber Command and the National Security Agency, said at a recent symposium that he believes the U.S. will be “bringing the weight of our nation,” including the Defense Department, “to take down this (ransomware) infrastructure outside the United States.”Sen. Angus King, an independent from Maine who is a legislative leader on cybersecurity issues, said the debate in Congress over how aggressive the U.S. needs to be against ransomware gangs, as well as state adversaries, will be “front and center of the next month or two.”“To be honest, it’s complicated because you’re talking about using government agencies, government capabilities to go after private citizens in another country,” he said.The U.S. is widely believed to have the best offensive cyber capabilities in the world, though details about such highly classified activities are scant. Documents leaked by former NSA contractor Edward Snowden show the U.S. conducted 231 offensive cyber operations in 2011. More than a decade ago a virus called Stuxnet attacked control units for centrifuges in an underground site in Iran, causing the sensitive devices to spin out of control and destroy themselves. The cyberattack was attributed to America and Israel.U.S. policy called “persistent engagement” already authorizes cyberwarriors to engage hostile hackers in cyberspace and disrupt their operations with code. U.S. Cyber Command has launched offensive operations related to election security, including against Russian misinformation officials during U.S. midterm elections in 2018.After the Colonial Pipeline attack, Biden promised that his administration was committed to bringing foreign cybercriminals to justice. Yet even as he was speaking from the White House, a different Russian-linked ransomware gang was leaking thousands of highly sensitive internal files — including deeply personal background checks — belonging to the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-police-technology-government-and-politics-1aedfcf42a8dc2b004ef610d0b57edb9">police department&nbsp;</a>in the nation’s capital. Experts believe it’s the worst ransomware attack against a U.S.-based law enforcement agency.“We are not afraid of anyone,” the hackers wrote in a follow-up post.

Hurdles hinder U.S. response to global war on ransomware

The
 Federal Trade Commission is returning more than $172 million to 
consumers who overpaid for merchandise they purchased using rent-to-own 
plans provided by Progressive Leasing. More than two million consumers<a href="https://public.tableau.com/app/profile/federal.trade.commission/viz/Refunds_15797958402020/RefundsbyCase"></a> will receive refund checks.

The <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/system/files/documents/cases/progressive_leasing_complaint.docx.pdf">FTC’s complaint against the company</a>, filed in April 2020, alleged that <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/press-releases/2020/04/rent-own-payment-plan-company-progressive-leasing-will-pay-175">Progressive misled consumers</a>
 about the true price of items purchased through its plans. Consumers 
who visited retailers to buy items such as furniture, jewelry, or 
cellphones frequently were told that Progressive’s payment plans were 
“same as cash” or “no interest” – leading consumers to believe they 
would not be charged more than an item’s sticker price.

Instead, the complaint alleged, consumers paid more
 than the sticker price, and frequently paid approximately twice the 
sticker price if they made all their scheduled payments. The FTC also 
alleged that Progressive was aware of consumers’ confusion about the 
terms of their plans through tens of thousands of consumer complaints, 
with more than 15,000 complaints received just in one 15-month period.

More than two million consumers are receiving 
refunds, averaging $85 each. Consumers who receive checks should deposit
 or cash their checks within 90 days, as indicated on the check. Because
 of the large number of refunds, the checks will be mailed over the next
 two weeks. The FTC never requires people to pay money or provide account information to cash a refund check.

Recipients who have questions about the redress 
payments, or who did not receive a payment but believe they are eligible
 should contact the refund administrator, Rust Consulting, at 
1-877-625-9449.

The FTC’s <a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/federal.trade.commission#!/vizhome/Refunds_15797958402020/RefundsbyCase">interactive dashboards for refund data(link is external)</a>
 provide a state-by-state breakdown of FTC refunds. In 2020, FTC actions
 led to more than $483 million in refunds to consumers across the 
country, but recently the United States Supreme Court ruled the FTC 
lacks authority under Section 13(b) to seek monetary relief in federal 
court going forward. The <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/press-releases/2021/04/ftc-asks-congress-pass-legislation-reviving-agencys-authority">Commission has urged Congress</a> to restore the FTC’s ability to get money back for consumers.

The Federal Trade Commission works to promote competition and to <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/about-ftc/bureaus-offices/bureau-consumer-protection">protect and educate consumers</a>. You can <a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/">learn more about consumer topics</a> and report scams, fraud, and bad business practices online at <a href="https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>. Like the FTC on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/federaltradecommission">Facebook(link is external)</a>, follow us on <a href="https://twitter.com/FTC">Twitter(link is external)</a>, get <a href="http://ftc.gov/subscribe">consumer alerts</a>, read our <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/blogs">blogs</a>, and <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/stay-connected">subscribe to press releases</a> for the latest FTC news and resources.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619632629588.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FTCThe
 Federal Trade Commission is returning more than $172 million to 
consumers who overpaid for merchandise they purchased using rent-to-own 
plans provided by Progressive Leasing. More than two million consumers<a href="https://public.tableau.com/app/profile/federal.trade.commission/viz/Refunds_15797958402020/RefundsbyCase"></a> will receive refund checks.The <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/system/files/documents/cases/progressive_leasing_complaint.docx.pdf">FTC’s complaint against the company</a>, filed in April 2020, alleged that <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/press-releases/2020/04/rent-own-payment-plan-company-progressive-leasing-will-pay-175">Progressive misled consumers</a>
 about the true price of items purchased through its plans. Consumers 
who visited retailers to buy items such as furniture, jewelry, or 
cellphones frequently were told that Progressive’s payment plans were 
“same as cash” or “no interest” – leading consumers to believe they 
would not be charged more than an item’s sticker price.Instead, the complaint alleged, consumers paid more
 than the sticker price, and frequently paid approximately twice the 
sticker price if they made all their scheduled payments. The FTC also 
alleged that Progressive was aware of consumers’ confusion about the 
terms of their plans through tens of thousands of consumer complaints, 
with more than 15,000 complaints received just in one 15-month period.More than two million consumers are receiving 
refunds, averaging $85 each. Consumers who receive checks should deposit
 or cash their checks within 90 days, as indicated on the check. Because
 of the large number of refunds, the checks will be mailed over the next
 two weeks. The FTC never requires people to pay money or provide account information to cash a refund check.Recipients who have questions about the redress 
payments, or who did not receive a payment but believe they are eligible
 should contact the refund administrator, Rust Consulting, at 
1-877-625-9449.The FTC’s <a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/federal.trade.commission#!/vizhome/Refunds_15797958402020/RefundsbyCase">interactive dashboards for refund data(link is external)</a>
 provide a state-by-state breakdown of FTC refunds. In 2020, FTC actions
 led to more than $483 million in refunds to consumers across the 
country, but recently the United States Supreme Court ruled the FTC 
lacks authority under Section 13(b) to seek monetary relief in federal 
court going forward. The <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/press-releases/2021/04/ftc-asks-congress-pass-legislation-reviving-agencys-authority">Commission has urged Congress</a> to restore the FTC’s ability to get money back for consumers.The Federal Trade Commission works to promote competition and to <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/about-ftc/bureaus-offices/bureau-consumer-protection">protect and educate consumers</a>. You can <a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/">learn more about consumer topics</a> and report scams, fraud, and bad business practices online at <a href="https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>. Like the FTC on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/federaltradecommission">Facebook(link is external)</a>, follow us on <a href="https://twitter.com/FTC">Twitter(link is external)</a>, get <a href="http://ftc.gov/subscribe">consumer alerts</a>, read our <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/blogs">blogs</a>, and <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/stay-connected">subscribe to press releases</a> for the latest FTC news and resources.

FTC: $172M in refunds mailed to victims of rent-to-own deception

SEDGWICK COUNTY— A third suspect has been arrested in connection to a shooting that killed a Wichita teenager in May of 2020.

Police arrested 19-year-old Jakob Oniel Cuble for first-degree murder and aggravated robbery.&nbsp; He's being <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20065648">held on a $250,000</a> bond, according to online jail records.

Cuble is third person arrested in connection to the death of 17-year-old Marcus Sain last year in a Wichita apartment complex shooting, which police say occurred during a drug deal. 

Nathaniel Saunders and Malcolm Ganther have also been charged with first-degree murder and aggravated battery for Sain's death.

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal shooting and have made an arrest.

Just before 3p.m. Wednesday, police responded to a shooting call at an apartment complex in the 1100 block of South Webb Road in Wichita, according to officer Charley Davidson.&nbsp; 

Upon arrival, police located 17-year-old Marcus Sain in a parking lot with critical injuries.&nbsp; He was transported to an area hospital for medical treatment and died, according to Davidson.

Several minutes later, officers responded to an area hospital regarding an 18-year-old male walk-in shooting victim with a gunshot wound to his body.&nbsp; He was treated for a non-life-threatening injury and released.

The investigation revealed&nbsp;22-year-old Malcolm Ganther, a second suspect, Sain, and an 18-year-old male had arranged to meet in the apartment complex parking lot regarding a drug transaction. 

A suspect arrived at the apartment complex parking lot driving a newer-model white mustang, and Ganther arrived at the same time driving a grey Buick.&nbsp; Sain and the 18-year-old walked up and got into the Buick, occupied by Ganther.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

During the transaction inside the Buick, a disturbance ensued, and the suspect seated in the Mustang exited the car and fired multiple shots at Sain and the 18-year-old, striking them and causing their injuries.&nbsp; Ganther then fled in the Buick, and the second suspect fled in the Mustang.

Through the community’s help and the investigation, Ganther was identified and arrested at his home on Thursday in the 300 block of North Edgemoor in Wichita. Investigators also have located the Buick vehicle involved.&nbsp;

Police are still working to identify and locate the suspect that arrived in the white Mustang, according to Davidson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622926965013.png" alt="Cuble photo Sedgwick County." />
 <figcaption>Cuble photo Sedgwick County.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY— A third suspect has been arrested in connection to a shooting that killed a Wichita teenager in May of 2020.Police arrested 19-year-old Jakob Oniel Cuble for first-degree murder and aggravated robbery.&nbsp; He's being <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20065648">held on a $250,000</a> bond, according to online jail records.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598393802179.png" alt="Saunders-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Saunders-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>Cuble is third person arrested in connection to the death of 17-year-old Marcus Sain last year in a Wichita apartment complex shooting, which police say occurred during a drug deal. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590157799937.png" alt="Ganther photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Ganther photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Nathaniel Saunders and Malcolm Ganther have also been charged with first-degree murder and aggravated battery for Sain's death.-------SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal shooting and have made an arrest.Just before 3p.m. Wednesday, police responded to a shooting call at an apartment complex in the 1100 block of South Webb Road in Wichita, according to officer Charley Davidson.&nbsp; Upon arrival, police located 17-year-old Marcus Sain in a parking lot with critical injuries.&nbsp; He was transported to an area hospital for medical treatment and died, according to Davidson.Several minutes later, officers responded to an area hospital regarding an 18-year-old male walk-in shooting victim with a gunshot wound to his body.&nbsp; He was treated for a non-life-threatening injury and released.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590090874405.png" alt="Malcom Ganther as seen on security camera images from Wichita Police" />
 <figcaption>Malcom Ganther as seen on security camera images from Wichita Police</figcaption>
 </figure>The investigation revealed&nbsp;22-year-old Malcolm Ganther, a second suspect, Sain, and an 18-year-old male had arranged to meet in the apartment complex parking lot regarding a drug transaction. A suspect arrived at the apartment complex parking lot driving a newer-model white mustang, and Ganther arrived at the same time driving a grey Buick.&nbsp; Sain and the 18-year-old walked up and got into the Buick, occupied by Ganther.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;During the transaction inside the Buick, a disturbance ensued, and the suspect seated in the Mustang exited the car and fired multiple shots at Sain and the 18-year-old, striking them and causing their injuries.&nbsp; Ganther then fled in the Buick, and the second suspect fled in the Mustang.Through the community’s help and the investigation, Ganther was identified and arrested at his home on Thursday in the 300 block of North Edgemoor in Wichita. Investigators also have located the Buick vehicle involved.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590090818345.png" alt="Security camera photo Wichita Police" />
 <figcaption>Security camera photo Wichita Police</figcaption>
 </figure>Police are still working to identify and locate the suspect that arrived in the white Mustang, according to Davidson.-------

Police arrest suspect for May 2020 murder of Kansas teen

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The second teenager who was shot last week in Omaha has died from his injuries. 

Omaha police said 17-year-old Javondre McIntosh died Saturday. 

Omaha police found McIntosh and Jiaquan Williams, also 17, with gunshot wounds just after 8 p.m. Thursday in north Omaha. 

Williams died shortly after he was taken to the Nebraska Medical Center. McIntosh had been listed in critical condition, with life-threatening injuries. 

Police say they’re still investigating and are looking for two people in connection with the shooting.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The second teenager who was shot last week in Omaha has died from his injuries. Omaha police said 17-year-old Javondre McIntosh died Saturday. Omaha police found McIntosh and Jiaquan Williams, also 17, with gunshot wounds just after 8 p.m. Thursday in north Omaha. Williams died shortly after he was taken to the Nebraska Medical Center. McIntosh had been listed in critical condition, with life-threatening injuries. Police say they’re still investigating and are looking for two people in connection with the shooting.

2nd teen dies from injuries in Omaha shooting last week

GRETNA, Neb. (AP) — Authorities say a Gretna woman was killed Saturday after her car left the roadway and struck a tree. 

The Sarpy County Sheriff’s Office said Julia Wynkoop-Wiley, 52, was identified as the driver of a Dodge Ram pickup. 

She was taken by a medical helicopter to the Nebraska Medicine Trauma Center. She was pronounced dead shortly after she arrived. 

The sheriff’s office said Wynkoop-Wiley was heading south on Westridge Road when she left the roadway at a curve and hit a tree. The crash was reported at 12:38 p.m. 

Officials said no further details will be released in the early stages of the investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1559617385052.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>GRETNA, Neb. (AP) — Authorities say a Gretna woman was killed Saturday after her car left the roadway and struck a tree. The Sarpy County Sheriff’s Office said Julia Wynkoop-Wiley, 52, was identified as the driver of a Dodge Ram pickup. She was taken by a medical helicopter to the Nebraska Medicine Trauma Center. She was pronounced dead shortly after she arrived. The sheriff’s office said Wynkoop-Wiley was heading south on Westridge Road when she left the roadway at a curve and hit a tree. The crash was reported at 12:38 p.m. Officials said no further details will be released in the early stages of the investigation.

Gretna woman killed after car leaves roadway, hits tree

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The family of a mentally ill Oklahoma man who died in a struggle with Omaha police four years ago is rallying for him again with a silent walk to the place where he died. 

Omaha television station KETV reports that Zachary Bear Heels died outside a gas station in June 2017 after Omaha police used a stun gun on him 12 times and punched him in the head. 

Some of the shocks came while Bear Heels was handcuffed and sitting simply against a vehicle. Officials said Bear Heels died of excited delirium, physical struggle, physical restraint and use of a stun gun. 

Family members said the 29-year-old had schizophrenia and was bipolar, something that may have impacted him that night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623063926958.png" alt="Photo: change.org" />
 <figcaption>Photo: change.org</figcaption>
 </figure>OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The family of a mentally ill Oklahoma man who died in a struggle with Omaha police four years ago is rallying for him again with a silent walk to the place where he died. Omaha television station KETV reports that Zachary Bear Heels died outside a gas station in June 2017 after Omaha police used a stun gun on him 12 times and punched him in the head. Some of the shocks came while Bear Heels was handcuffed and sitting simply against a vehicle. Officials said Bear Heels died of excited delirium, physical struggle, physical restraint and use of a stun gun. Family members said the 29-year-old had schizophrenia and was bipolar, something that may have impacted him that night.

Family rallies for man killed in 2017 Omaha police struggle

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Some wildlife species that were previously absent or rare in Kansas are appearing more often now, including a mountain lion that was caught on video last month roaming through an alley in Wichita. 

Mountain lion sighting continues a trend in recent decades that has brought an increased presence of wildlife, including elk, black bears, river otters and armadillos. 

Matt Peek of the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism says some animal populations that been reduced significantly by hunting have also gone from very rare to very abundant in Kansas. Those animals include wild turkey, Canada goose and deer populations.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620829476424.png" alt="A mountain lion that was caught on video last month roaming through an alley in Wichita-image courtesy KAKE" />
 <figcaption>A mountain lion that was caught on video last month roaming through an alley in Wichita-image courtesy KAKE</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Some wildlife species that were previously absent or rare in Kansas are appearing more often now, including a mountain lion that was caught on video last month roaming through an alley in Wichita. Mountain lion sighting continues a trend in recent decades that has brought an increased presence of wildlife, including elk, black bears, river otters and armadillos. Matt Peek of the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism says some animal populations that been reduced significantly by hunting have also gone from very rare to very abundant in Kansas. Those animals include wild turkey, Canada goose and deer populations.

Kansas seeing more mountain lions, black bears, elk

WASHINGTON
 — The Internal Revenue Service reminds taxpayers who missed the recent 
tax-filing deadline who are due a refund that there is no penalty for 
filing late. Those who owe and missed the deadline without requesting an
 extension should file quickly to limit penalties and interest.

Extra time to file and pay any taxes due without penalties and interest is available for some taxpayers. Included are:

The only way to get a refund is to file a tax return. There is no 
penalty for filing after the deadline if a refund is due. Use electronic
 filing options including IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">Free File</a> available on IRS.gov through October 15 to prepare and file returns electronically.

COVID-19 continues to cause delays in some IRS services. If a 
taxpayer filed a paper tax return, the IRS will process it in the order 
it was received. Taxpayers should not file a second tax return or call 
the IRS. The IRS issues more than nine out of 10 refunds in less than 21
 days. However, it's possible a tax return may require <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds/tax-season-refund-frequently-asked-questions">additional review</a> and take longer.

Taxpayers can track a refund using the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds">Where's My Refund?</a> tool on IRS.gov, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs2goapp">IRS2Go</a> and by phone at <a href="tel:800-829-1954">800-829-1954</a>.
 Taxpayers need the primary Social Security number on the tax return, 
the filing status and the expected refund amount. The tool updates once 
daily, usually overnight, so there's no need to check more frequently. 
The Where's My Refund?&nbsp;tool cannot be used to track Economic Impact 
Payments.

Normally, taxpayers should file their tax return, or request an 
extension, and pay any taxes they owe by the deadline to avoid penalties
 and interest. An extension to file is not an extension to pay. 
Penalties and interest will apply to taxes owed after May 17.

Even if a taxpayer can't afford to immediately pay the taxes they 
owe, they should still file a tax return as soon as possible to reduce 
possible penalties. The IRS has more information for <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/what-if-i-cant-pay-my-taxes">taxpayers who owe the IRS, but cannot afford to pay</a>.

Ordinarily, the failure to file penalty is 5% of the tax owed for 
each month or part of a month that a tax return is late, up to five 
months, reduced by the failure to pay penalty amount for any month where
 both penalties apply. If a return is filed more than 60 days after the 
due date, the minimum penalty is either $435 or 100% of the unpaid tax, 
whichever is less. Filing and paying as much as possible is important 
because the late-filing penalty and late-payment penalty add up quickly.
 The failure to pay penalty rate is generally 0.5% of unpaid tax owed 
for each month or part of a month until the tax is fully paid or until 
25% is reached. The rate is subject to change. For more information see <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/penalties">IRS.gov/penalties</a>.

Taxpayers who have a history of filing and paying on time often 
qualify for penalty relief. A taxpayer will usually qualify if they have
 filed and paid timely for the past three years and meet other 
requirements. For more information, see the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/penalty-relief-due-to-first-time-penalty-abatement-or-other-administrative-waiver">first-time penalty abatement</a> page on IRS.gov.

Interest is charged on tax and penalties until the balance is <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments">paid in full</a>.

Those who owe taxes can pay with IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/direct-pay">Direct Pay</a>, by <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/pay-your-taxes-by-debit-or-credit-card">debit or credit card</a> or <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/online-payment-agreement-application">apply online for a payment plan (including an installment agreement)</a>. For more electronic payment options visit <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments">IRS.gov/payments</a>.
 They are secure and easy to use. Taxpayers paying electronically 
receive immediate confirmation when they submit their payment. With 
Direct Pay and the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/eftps-the-electronic-federal-tax-payment-system">Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS)</a>, taxpayers can opt in to receive email notifications about their payments.

The IRS offers tips to help taxpayers choose a tax return preparer wisely. The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/choosing-a-tax-professional">Choosing a Tax Professional</a> page has information about tax return preparer <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/understanding-tax-return-preparer-credentials-and-qualifications">credentials and qualification</a>s and guidance on avoiding unscrupulous tax return preparers

The <a href="https://irs.treasury.gov/rpo/rpo.jsf">Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers with Credentials and Select Qualifications</a>
 can help taxpayers find tax return preparers who hold a professional 
credential recognized by the IRS or who have completed the requirements 
for the IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/annual-filing-season-program">Annual Filing Season Program</a>.

Taxpayers have fundamental rights under the law that protect taxpayers when they interact with the IRS. The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/taxpayer-bill-of-rights">Taxpayer Bill of Rights</a> presents these rights in 10 categories. IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-1">Publication 1, Your Rights as a Taxpayer</a>, highlights these rights and the agency's obligation to protect them.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON
 — The Internal Revenue Service reminds taxpayers who missed the recent 
tax-filing deadline who are due a refund that there is no penalty for 
filing late. Those who owe and missed the deadline without requesting an
 extension should file quickly to limit penalties and interest.<h2>Extra time to file and pay any taxes due without penalties and interest is available for some taxpayers. Included are:</h2><ul>
 <li>Members of the military who served or are currently in a combat zone. They may qualify for an <a href="https://www.irs.gov/publications/p3#idm139848472538848">additional extension of at least 180 days</a> to file and pay taxes.</li><li>Support personnel in combat zones or a contingency operation in support of the Armed Forces. They may also <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/extension-of-deadlines-combat-zone-service">qualify for a filing and payment extension</a> of at least 180 days.</li><li>Some disaster victims. Those who qualify have <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/disaster-assistance-and-emergency-relief-for-individuals-and-businesses">more time to file and pay</a> what they owe.</li>
 </ul><h2>Here are some tips for late filers:</h2><h2>File to get a tax refund</h2>The only way to get a refund is to file a tax return. There is no 
penalty for filing after the deadline if a refund is due. Use electronic
 filing options including IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">Free File</a> available on IRS.gov through October 15 to prepare and file returns electronically.COVID-19 continues to cause delays in some IRS services. If a 
taxpayer filed a paper tax return, the IRS will process it in the order 
it was received. Taxpayers should not file a second tax return or call 
the IRS. The IRS issues more than nine out of 10 refunds in less than 21
 days. However, it's possible a tax return may require <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds/tax-season-refund-frequently-asked-questions">additional review</a> and take longer.Taxpayers can track a refund using the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds">Where's My Refund?</a> tool on IRS.gov, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs2goapp">IRS2Go</a> and by phone at <a href="tel:800-829-1954">800-829-1954</a>.
 Taxpayers need the primary Social Security number on the tax return, 
the filing status and the expected refund amount. The tool updates once 
daily, usually overnight, so there's no need to check more frequently. 
The Where's My Refund?&nbsp;tool cannot be used to track Economic Impact 
Payments.<h2>File to reduce penalties and interest</h2>Normally, taxpayers should file their tax return, or request an 
extension, and pay any taxes they owe by the deadline to avoid penalties
 and interest. An extension to file is not an extension to pay. 
Penalties and interest will apply to taxes owed after May 17.Even if a taxpayer can't afford to immediately pay the taxes they 
owe, they should still file a tax return as soon as possible to reduce 
possible penalties. The IRS has more information for <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/what-if-i-cant-pay-my-taxes">taxpayers who owe the IRS, but cannot afford to pay</a>.Ordinarily, the failure to file penalty is 5% of the tax owed for 
each month or part of a month that a tax return is late, up to five 
months, reduced by the failure to pay penalty amount for any month where
 both penalties apply. If a return is filed more than 60 days after the 
due date, the minimum penalty is either $435 or 100% of the unpaid tax, 
whichever is less. Filing and paying as much as possible is important 
because the late-filing penalty and late-payment penalty add up quickly.
 The failure to pay penalty rate is generally 0.5% of unpaid tax owed 
for each month or part of a month until the tax is fully paid or until 
25% is reached. The rate is subject to change. For more information see <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/penalties">IRS.gov/penalties</a>.Taxpayers who have a history of filing and paying on time often 
qualify for penalty relief. A taxpayer will usually qualify if they have
 filed and paid timely for the past three years and meet other 
requirements. For more information, see the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/penalty-relief-due-to-first-time-penalty-abatement-or-other-administrative-waiver">first-time penalty abatement</a> page on IRS.gov.Interest is charged on tax and penalties until the balance is <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments">paid in full</a>.<h2>Pay taxes due electronically</h2>Those who owe taxes can pay with IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/direct-pay">Direct Pay</a>, by <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/pay-your-taxes-by-debit-or-credit-card">debit or credit card</a> or <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/online-payment-agreement-application">apply online for a payment plan (including an installment agreement)</a>. For more electronic payment options visit <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments">IRS.gov/payments</a>.
 They are secure and easy to use. Taxpayers paying electronically 
receive immediate confirmation when they submit their payment. With 
Direct Pay and the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/eftps-the-electronic-federal-tax-payment-system">Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS)</a>, taxpayers can opt in to receive email notifications about their payments.<h2>Selecting a tax professional</h2>The IRS offers tips to help taxpayers choose a tax return preparer wisely. The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/choosing-a-tax-professional">Choosing a Tax Professional</a> page has information about tax return preparer <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/understanding-tax-return-preparer-credentials-and-qualifications">credentials and qualification</a>s and guidance on avoiding unscrupulous tax return preparersThe <a href="https://irs.treasury.gov/rpo/rpo.jsf">Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers with Credentials and Select Qualifications</a>
 can help taxpayers find tax return preparers who hold a professional 
credential recognized by the IRS or who have completed the requirements 
for the IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/annual-filing-season-program">Annual Filing Season Program</a>.<h2>Taxpayer Bill of Rights</h2>Taxpayers have fundamental rights under the law that protect taxpayers when they interact with the IRS. The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/taxpayer-bill-of-rights">Taxpayer Bill of Rights</a> presents these rights in 10 categories. IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-1">Publication 1, Your Rights as a Taxpayer</a>, highlights these rights and the agency's obligation to protect them.

Missed your tax filing deadline? There is still time to get help, relief

Acting United States Attorney Jan Sharp announced that Santa Man Mongar, 27, of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced today in federal court in Omaha for Attempted Enticement of a Minor.&nbsp; United States District Judge Robert F. Rossiter, Jr. sentenced Mongar to 120 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system.&nbsp; After his release from prison, he will begin a 10-year term of supervised release. Mongar will also be required to register as a sex offender and is subject to deportation by U.S. immigration authorities when he completes his sentence of imprisonment.

In late August 2020, Mongar responded to an online prostitution advertisement by texting the phone number listed in the ad. An undercover law enforcement officer purporting to be a 15-year-old female responded to Mongar’s texts. Mongar arranged to meet the 15-year-old female at a gas station in Omaha, offering to pay the female in exchange for oral sex and agreeing to bring her alcohol. When Mongar arrived at the gas station, he was detained by law enforcement. Mongar admitted to answering the prostitution ad and texting with a person he believed to be a 15-year-old female.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.projectsafechildhood.gov/" target="_blank">www.projectsafechildhood.gov</a>.

This case was investigated by the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office and the Omaha FBI's Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force.

This case was investigated by&nbsp;the Omaha FBI's Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force&nbsp;and the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office.

News Release US Attorney's OfficeActing United States Attorney Jan Sharp announced that Santa Man Mongar, 27, of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced today in federal court in Omaha for Attempted Enticement of a Minor.&nbsp; United States District Judge Robert F. Rossiter, Jr. sentenced Mongar to 120 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system.&nbsp; After his release from prison, he will begin a 10-year term of supervised release. Mongar will also be required to register as a sex offender and is subject to deportation by U.S. immigration authorities when he completes his sentence of imprisonment.In late August 2020, Mongar responded to an online prostitution advertisement by texting the phone number listed in the ad. An undercover law enforcement officer purporting to be a 15-year-old female responded to Mongar’s texts. Mongar arranged to meet the 15-year-old female at a gas station in Omaha, offering to pay the female in exchange for oral sex and agreeing to bring her alcohol. When Mongar arrived at the gas station, he was detained by law enforcement. Mongar admitted to answering the prostitution ad and texting with a person he believed to be a 15-year-old female.This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.projectsafechildhood.gov/" target="_blank">www.projectsafechildhood.gov</a>.This case was investigated by the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office and the Omaha FBI's Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force.This case was investigated by&nbsp;the Omaha FBI's Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force&nbsp;and the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office.

Omaha man convicted of attempted enticement of a minor

News Release Nebraska Game and Parks

LINCOLN, Neb. — The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission has declared a fish salvage for Wagon Train Lake at Wagon Train State Recreation Area east of Hickman in advance of an Aquatic Habitat Project to be completed in the fall.

Anglers will be allowed to salvage fish by hook and line and archery during standard seasons for human consumption until June 4, 2022. Minimum length limits on fish will be rescinded, but bag limits will be maintained.

A 12-foot drawdown at the lake will start after Labor Day, which is Sept. 6 this year, so that sediment that has collected in the basins can be excavated. Maintenance will be performed to keep additional sediment from entering the main lake. Fish and habitat features will be added, and maintenance performed on the boat ramp facilities and angler access jetties.

The drawdown also will allow the opportunity to renovate the existing fishery, which has degraded due to the presence of common carp, white perch and gizzard shad. When restocking occurs in 2022, planned fish stockings include largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish, black crappie, walleye and muskellunge.

Due to concerns about the spread of Aquatic Invasive Species and other unwanted species, salvaged fish cannot be sold or used for stocking purposes into any other waterbodies, public or private.

Anglers must have appropriate fishing licenses and a park sticker; purchase one at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA2MDQuNDE1MjIxMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.ubcBNwyjJS970o1My_Hhgf29exnJjb47nggkfcIHd_Y/s/1372948182/br/107497790647-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>. Find fishing regulations in the 2021 Fishing Guide at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA2MDQuNDE1MjIxMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9ndWlkZXMvIn0.uSqJ51fR6VbSb2v0aC69YdI17P5jrPJFbNuBWkttep0/s/1372948182/br/107497790647-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/guides</a>.

Partial funding for this project is provided by Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration Fund. For additional information, contact Jeff Jackson @ 402-471-7647 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jeff.jackson@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">jeff.jackson@nebraska.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622900675890.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News Release Nebraska Game and ParksLINCOLN, Neb. — The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission has declared a fish salvage for Wagon Train Lake at Wagon Train State Recreation Area east of Hickman in advance of an Aquatic Habitat Project to be completed in the fall.Anglers will be allowed to salvage fish by hook and line and archery during standard seasons for human consumption until June 4, 2022. Minimum length limits on fish will be rescinded, but bag limits will be maintained.A 12-foot drawdown at the lake will start after Labor Day, which is Sept. 6 this year, so that sediment that has collected in the basins can be excavated. Maintenance will be performed to keep additional sediment from entering the main lake. Fish and habitat features will be added, and maintenance performed on the boat ramp facilities and angler access jetties.The drawdown also will allow the opportunity to renovate the existing fishery, which has degraded due to the presence of common carp, white perch and gizzard shad. When restocking occurs in 2022, planned fish stockings include largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish, black crappie, walleye and muskellunge.Due to concerns about the spread of Aquatic Invasive Species and other unwanted species, salvaged fish cannot be sold or used for stocking purposes into any other waterbodies, public or private.Anglers must have appropriate fishing licenses and a park sticker; purchase one at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA2MDQuNDE1MjIxMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.ubcBNwyjJS970o1My_Hhgf29exnJjb47nggkfcIHd_Y/s/1372948182/br/107497790647-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>. Find fishing regulations in the 2021 Fishing Guide at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA2MDQuNDE1MjIxMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9ndWlkZXMvIn0.uSqJ51fR6VbSb2v0aC69YdI17P5jrPJFbNuBWkttep0/s/1372948182/br/107497790647-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/guides</a>.Partial funding for this project is provided by Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration Fund. For additional information, contact Jeff Jackson @ 402-471-7647 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jeff.jackson@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">jeff.jackson@nebraska.gov</a>.

Liberalized fishing regulations declared for Wagon Train Reservoir

Minority farmers who for decades have faced systemic discrimination will begin to receive debt relief beginning in this month under what Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack called one of the most significant pieces of civil rights legislation in decades.

In an op-ed piece published in USA Today, Vilsack also called the debt relief a “major civil rights victory,” saying it responds to systemic discrimination perpetrated against farmers and ranchers of color by the Agriculture Department.

“It is a historic move that will symbolize that USDA actually cares and that the Biden administration is doing whatever they can to mend fences and show the minority farmers that they do care about them during his administration,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-race-and-ethnicity-tom-vilsack-agriculture-barack-obama-669c46ed87d24d3d14692c4b89eb04de">Abraham Carpenter</a>, a 59-year-old Black farmer whose family grows fruits and vegetables on about 1,500 acres near Grady, Arkansas.

Carpenter expects the debt relief will pay off about $200,000 in farm loans, freeing up money that can now be put toward farm operations like buying seed and equipment instead of making loan payments.

“I know they have said it about a thousand times that they wanted to bring everybody together to make sure everybody was treated fairly. You can say it a million times., but until you show it nobody really believes it,” he said. “But this action of paying off debts for the minority farmers shows they actually do care about treating everybody fairly.”

The U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency has published the first notice of funding availability under the American Rescue Plan Act for borrowers with qualifying direct farm loans. A subsequent notice for farmers with government-guaranteed agricultural loans held by private lenders will be published within 120 days.

A provision in the pandemic relief law directs USDA to pay off the farm loans of nearly 16,000 minority farmers and begin to address racial equity challenges. It authorizes the Agriculture Department to pay up to 120% of direct and guaranteed loan outstanding balances for socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers.

“I’m feeling really good,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/race-and-ethnicity-discrimination-kansas-cultures-agriculture-871f463bcf1e1e4fac8aa3492f7c8264">Rod Bradshaw</a>, a 68-year-old Black farmer who raises wheat, cattle and milo on 2,000 acres near Jetmore, Kansas. “We knew it was coming, we didn’t know when.”

Bradshaw, who has been farming since buying his first ground in 1976, has made several discrimination complaints with Agriculture Department over the years. He said he has four direct loans totaling more than $300,000 with USDA that he anticipates will be paid off under the debt relief plan.

“It’s going to free us up and let us halfway conduct business as usual,” Bradshaw said upon learning of Friday’s announcement. “This has been going on for so long, this is the first step of getting Black farmers and farmers of color back to where they need to be.”

The Agriculture Department said in its news release that for much of its history, socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers have faced discrimination, sometimes overt and sometimes through deeply embedded rules and policies.

“USDA is recommitting itself to gaining the trust and confidence of America’s farmers and ranchers using a new set of tools provided in the American Rescue Plan to increase opportunity, advance equity and address systemic discrimination in USDA programs,” Vilsack said.

By ROXANA HEGEMAN, Associated PressMinority farmers who for decades have faced systemic discrimination will begin to receive debt relief beginning in this month under what Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack called one of the most significant pieces of civil rights legislation in decades.In an op-ed piece published in USA Today, Vilsack also called the debt relief a “major civil rights victory,” saying it responds to systemic discrimination perpetrated against farmers and ranchers of color by the Agriculture Department.“It is a historic move that will symbolize that USDA actually cares and that the Biden administration is doing whatever they can to mend fences and show the minority farmers that they do care about them during his administration,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-race-and-ethnicity-tom-vilsack-agriculture-barack-obama-669c46ed87d24d3d14692c4b89eb04de">Abraham Carpenter</a>, a 59-year-old Black farmer whose family grows fruits and vegetables on about 1,500 acres near Grady, Arkansas.Carpenter expects the debt relief will pay off about $200,000 in farm loans, freeing up money that can now be put toward farm operations like buying seed and equipment instead of making loan payments.“I know they have said it about a thousand times that they wanted to bring everybody together to make sure everybody was treated fairly. You can say it a million times., but until you show it nobody really believes it,” he said. “But this action of paying off debts for the minority farmers shows they actually do care about treating everybody fairly.”The U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency has published the first notice of funding availability under the American Rescue Plan Act for borrowers with qualifying direct farm loans. A subsequent notice for farmers with government-guaranteed agricultural loans held by private lenders will be published within 120 days.A provision in the pandemic relief law directs USDA to pay off the farm loans of nearly 16,000 minority farmers and begin to address racial equity challenges. It authorizes the Agriculture Department to pay up to 120% of direct and guaranteed loan outstanding balances for socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers.“I’m feeling really good,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/race-and-ethnicity-discrimination-kansas-cultures-agriculture-871f463bcf1e1e4fac8aa3492f7c8264">Rod Bradshaw</a>, a 68-year-old Black farmer who raises wheat, cattle and milo on 2,000 acres near Jetmore, Kansas. “We knew it was coming, we didn’t know when.”Bradshaw, who has been farming since buying his first ground in 1976, has made several discrimination complaints with Agriculture Department over the years. He said he has four direct loans totaling more than $300,000 with USDA that he anticipates will be paid off under the debt relief plan.“It’s going to free us up and let us halfway conduct business as usual,” Bradshaw said upon learning of Friday’s announcement. “This has been going on for so long, this is the first step of getting Black farmers and farmers of color back to where they need to be.”The Agriculture Department said in its news release that for much of its history, socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers have faced discrimination, sometimes overt and sometimes through deeply embedded rules and policies.“USDA is recommitting itself to gaining the trust and confidence of America’s farmers and ranchers using a new set of tools provided in the American Rescue Plan to increase opportunity, advance equity and address systemic discrimination in USDA programs,” Vilsack said.

USDA begins paying off loans of minority farmers 

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect after an altercation at a grocery store.

Just before 9p.m.&nbsp; Wednesday, police responded to a disturbance at the Dillions in the 3200 block of South Seneca in Wichita, according to Officer Charley Davidson.

Upon arrival, officers contacted private security and Dillon’s employees, who reported a 37-year-old James Hirsh of Wichita entered the business and got into a disturbance with an employee regarding Chick-Fil-A sauce being on sale.&nbsp; 

Hirsh was asked to calm down or leave the store when he began throwing punches.&nbsp; Private security detained Hirsh until he calmed down.&nbsp; Hirsh then threatened staff, exited the store, and got into his car.&nbsp; He drove his vehicle toward the entrance doors of the business, where staff were standing before leaving.

Police arrested him on requested charges of aggravated assault and one count of aggravated criminal threat.

There were no injuries in this case.&nbsp; It&nbsp;will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622832704991.png" alt="Hirsh photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Hirsh photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect after an altercation at a grocery store.Just before 9p.m.&nbsp; Wednesday, police responded to a disturbance at the Dillions in the 3200 block of South Seneca in Wichita, according to Officer Charley Davidson.Upon arrival, officers contacted private security and Dillon’s employees, who reported a 37-year-old James Hirsh of Wichita entered the business and got into a disturbance with an employee regarding Chick-Fil-A sauce being on sale.&nbsp; Hirsh was asked to calm down or leave the store when he began throwing punches.&nbsp; Private security detained Hirsh until he calmed down.&nbsp; Hirsh then threatened staff, exited the store, and got into his car.&nbsp; He drove his vehicle toward the entrance doors of the business, where staff were standing before leaving.Police arrested him on requested charges of aggravated assault and one count of aggravated criminal threat.There were no injuries in this case.&nbsp; It&nbsp;will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office.

Kan. man jailed after fight over sauce sale at grocery store

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — A Wyoming sheriff’s corporal facing a wrongful death lawsuit in the killing of an unarmed mentally ill man in 2018 has resigned.

 Albany County sheriff's officials say Derek Colling left his job Wednesday. He was a patrol deputy when he shot and killed 39-year-old Robert “Robbie” Ramirez after a traffic stop in Laramie in 2018. 

A grand jury found Colling didn’t commit involuntary manslaughter. 

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — A Wyoming sheriff’s corporal facing a wrongful death lawsuit in the killing of an unarmed mentally ill man in 2018 has resigned. Albany County sheriff's officials say Derek Colling left his job Wednesday. He was a patrol deputy when he shot and killed 39-year-old Robert “Robbie” Ramirez after a traffic stop in Laramie in 2018. A grand jury found Colling didn’t commit involuntary manslaughter. In court documents, Colling denies allegations in the lawsuit, though he acknowledges shooting Ramirez. The lawsuit says the sheriff's office hired Colling in 2012 after he shot two people in the line of duty and was fired from the police department in Las Vegas.