Author: KMAN Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. — The state Supreme Court has upheld the convictions of a northeast Kansas woman serving a “Hard 50” prison sentence for shooting the father of her child six times and setting his body on fire in his mother’s home. The court on Friday unanimously rejected arguments from Tria Evans’ attorney that a Douglas County judge shouldn’t have allowed testimony that 34-year-old victim Joel Wales told others he feared Evans would kill him. The now 42-year-old Evans was convicted of first-degree murder and arson over Wales’ death in November 2017. She was sentenced to life in prison with no…

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Officers filed a report for criminal damage to property in the 1000 block of S. Seth Child Rd. in Manhattan on August 5, 2021, around 3:57 p.m. Officers listed Riley County Jail as the victim when it was reported a 32-year-old male inmate damaged a commissary kiosk. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $795. Officers filed a report for criminal damage to property in the 1000 block of Hostetler Dr. in Manhattan on August 5, 2021, around 11:25 p.m. Officers listed Comfort Inn and Suites as the victim when it was reported a 41-year-old male suspect…

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Riley County commissioners dismissed a mask mandate recommendation for county employees on Monday. Health Department Director Julie Gibbs, Human Resource Manager Elizabeth Wad, and Assistant EMS Director Josh Gering brought the recommendation to the commission. Ward says this is based on guidance from health professionals. Ward says if they do not take protective actions, a large number of employees may be out with the infection. Gibbs says the number of cases isn’t the most concerning number to her, but the situation at the hospitals. Commission Chair John Ford was against the mandate, saying it is the responsibility of the individual…

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Local medical professionals gave their reasoning for the USD 383 mask mandate to the school board Wednesday. The mask mandate is also a part of the district’s reopening plan for the 2021-22 school year.  The board heard several public comments against, stating concerns over student mental and physical health. Superintendent Dr. Marvin Wade brought on three members of the district’s Medical Advisory Board, made up of local medical officials, to explain the recommendation for the mandate. Dr. Segen Chase says the committee wants students to return to a normal school year as much as anyone. Chase says local and surrounding…

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On Thursday’s edition of In Focus we spoke with NBAF Coordinator Dr. Ken Burton, NBAF Communications Director Katie Pawlosky and featured guest Dr. Chuck Dodd, Transition Program Manager at Plum Island Animal Disease Center. We also spoke with Gov. Kelly’s Military Council Executive Director Gen. Perry Wiggins.

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Officers filed a report for theft in 400 block of Pierre St. in Manhattan on August 3, 2021, around 11:14 a.m. Officers listed Go Van Go as the victim when it was reported an unknown suspect stole a white 2003 Dodge Caravan. Anyone with information can contact RCPD or the Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000. Officers filed a report for criminal use of a financial card and theft in the 800 block of Commons Pl. in Manhattan…

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On Wednesday’s edition of In Focus we spoke with USD 383 Superintendent Dr. Marvin Wade and board member Jurdene Coleman. Manhattan Fire Department Building Official Darren Emery and Pottawatomie County Planner Stephan Metzger joined us to talk about Blue Township codes and projects. In our final segment Flint Hills Wellness Coalition Chair Debbie Nuss previewed Everybody Counts happening Saturday at the Douglass Center.

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The Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce recognized local businesses with their second annual Business Awards. While this is the second award show, it is the first one to be held in person as last year’s was virtual. This year’s winner for the Women/Minority Owned Business award was Loving Arms Enterprises Childcare and Preschool. Founder LaFarris Risby says she is deeply honored for this award. During her speech, Risby said she believes children are the community’s greatest resource. Being able to be a part of families’ stories and being recognized for that, she says is amazing. Borck Brothers menswear was this…

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