law enforcement

Drivers might unknowingly be exposing themselves to violations of their constitutional rights. Legal experts discuss privacy violations related to car insurance, the "Kansas two-step," and what to do if you're pulled over.

Some Kansas lawmakers say police are not doing enough to address crime stemming from homelessness — but advocates say making more arrests will actually make the problem worse. Plus: Rural Midwest school districts don't have enough funding to fulfill their promises to educate homeless students.

Law enforcement officials say arresting homeless people for minor crimes like trespassing and vandalism will not help reduce homelessness. Experts say it will cost a lot of tax dollars and actually makes homelessness worse.

By placing Missouri Amendment 6 before voters, lawmakers sought to reverse the impact of a 2021 Missouri Supreme Court ruling that found the fees unconstitutional.

Howe was able to weather controversies over his handling of the officer-involved killing of John Albers in 2018 and the FBI investigation that brought national attention to the case.

Medical marijuana remains illegal in Kansas, and groups representing Kansas police chiefs, sheriffs and peace officers want it to stay that way — claiming it will create black market activity and crime. However, a majority of Kansans support legal weed.

If passed, Amendment 6 would allow Missouri to fund salaries and pensions for elected county sheriffs and prosecutors through court fees. It was placed on the Nov. 5 ballot by the General Assembly to reverse a Missouri Supreme Court ruling that found the fees unconstitutional.

Kansas and Missouri police departments have paid thousands of dollars for an aggressive and discredited officer training. Plus: How some universities are tackling the issue of food insecurity among their students.

The Supreme Court of the United States will decide this summer if unhoused people can be fined or arrested for sleeping outside. Local government officials, including some in Kansas City, say enforcement of encampments is needed to address the crisis. But advocates say criminalization is a waste of resources.

Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly signed the Kansas law that denies civil asset forfeiture in cases of lower level crimes like simple possession of drugs. It also forces police to return seized property faster.

In March 2022, a Missouri sniper shot and killed a toddler in error, acting — according to experts — contrary to training and best practices.

The man, known only as Sniper 1, fatally shot two-year-old Clesslynn Crawford during a 2022 standoff. He is still working for the Joplin Police Department.