Kansas Klips
Teen recognized by President Trump has Kansas connection
WASHINGTON—On Tuesday night, March 4th, at President Trump’s direction, Secret Service Director Sean Curran presented Devarjaye “DJ” Daniel with an honorary badge. Daniel, who has battled brain cancer since he was six years old, became the youngest ever Secret Service agent. In 2022, McPherson Police Chief Mikel Golden and his FBI National Academy (Class #284) swore in DJ as an honorary McPherson Police Officer. "When DJ was diagnosed with brain cancer, doctors gave him just six months to live, but this warrior is finding a way to beat the odds!" Chief Golden wrote on the department’s social media page. “Congratulations DJ, we are very proud of you, keep fighting, our thoughts and prayers are always with you!" (Hays Post)
Hays road rage incident leads to three arrests, drug bust
HAYS—Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler said an alleged road rage incident took place at 12:13 p.m. on Friday, February 28th, at the intersection of 13th and Fort Street after two vehicles nearly collided. A handgun was allegedly brandished during the incident, Scheibler said. That same day, police officers located a vehicle linked to the incident, which led them to the residence of two identified suspects. Scheibler said a search warrant was executed once officers became aware of potential drug activity. Officers allegedly discovered a large quantity of marijuana, drug paraphernalia, the handgun involved in the road rage incident, and a rifle. Devon Reed, 27, was arrested at the residence and charged with possession of marijuana, intent to distribute, possession of drug paraphernalia, failure to have a drug tax stamp, aggravated assault, and criminal possession of a firearm. He was arrested alongside Michayla Miller, 27, who faced charges of possession of marijuana, distribution of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, failure to have a drug tax stamp, and aggravated assault. Additionally, Legend Robertson, 18, who also resided at home, turned himself into the police, according to Scheibler. He was arrested and charged with possession of cocaine, possession of marijuana, and intent to distribute marijuana. Scheibler said he appreciated the outstanding work of patrol officers and the investigation division. (Hays Post)
Governor moves controversial “Black Mass” outside Kansas Statehouse
TOPEKA—Kansas Governor Laura Kelly issued a statement on Wednesday, March 12th, about a “Black Mass” event scheduled for Friday, March 28th, at the Kansas Statehouse. The Satanic Grotto announced on social media they organized an event inside the Capitol building that day. In a statement from the Office, Governor Kelly wrote, "I have been informed about con cerns regarding an event at the Statehouse on March 28th, and I share those concerns. There are more constructive ways to protest and express disagreements without insulting or denigrating sacred religious symbols. However, as governor, I also have a duty to protect protesters’ constitutional rights to freedom of speech and expression, regardless of how offensive or distasteful I might find the content to be. Since these rights are constitutionally protected, the Governor's Office has limited authority to respond to such actions. That said, it is important to keep the State house open and accessible to the public while ensuring all necessary health and safety regulations are enforced. Therefore, all events planned for March 28th will be moved outdoors to the grounds surrounding the Statehouse. Again, no protests will be allowed inside the Statehouse on March 28th.” (Hays Post)
Burn pit unused for a week sparked northwest Kansas fire
RAWLINS COUNTY-A special agent with the Kansas State Fire Marshal assisted in investigating a grass fire in Rawlins County. The area of origin for the grass fire was a burn pit that had not been used in over a week, according to a social media report from the State Fire Marshal. The property owner last checked the burn pit the prior weekend and saw no signs of smoldering. The State Fire Marshal reminded the public that burn pits can smolder for days or weeks, even after the fire is out. One tip is to keep up on property maintenance by keeping vegetation mowed down and away from any structures. It does not take long for dry material to go up in flames. Two Thomas County deputies who were alerted to the fire in the neighboring county, responded, and observed a group of trees/bushes near a shed ignite. One deputy stated, "It was a big flash and the bushes were done." There were no injuries from the fire. (Hays Post)
