By Trend News Line 2024-05-17 13:13:48.
The Arrest and Charges
In a shocking development, three former Atchison County employees were among five individuals arrested on felony charges related to an ultra-terrain vehicle (UTV) injury crash that occurred in September 2023. The arrests were made after a comprehensive six-month investigation conducted by Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie. The individuals were taken into custody on Wednesday afternoon and evening on warrants issued by the Atchison County District Court.
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The Individuals Arrested
Among those arrested was 42-year-old Wesley “Wes” Lanter, a former Atchison County Emergency Management Director who served in the role from December 2010 until his termination in February 2024. Lanter, who was also a certified EMT, was arrested on two felony counts: aid and abet leaving the scene of an accident-failure to report an injury accident resulting in great bodily harm, and interference with law enforcement. He also faced a misdemeanor count of official misconduct. Interestingly, weeks after his termination from Atchison County, Lanter was appointed as the Valley Falls city administrator.
Other Arrested Individuals
Also arrested on the same two felony counts was Jessica Housh, a 34-year-old Atchison resident who served as Lanter’s Emergency Management office manager. She was a certified EMT and had been a first responder for Atchison County Rescue for 12 years until her termination in February. Additionally, Adam Housh, a 12-year County Rescue member who served as the rescue team’s Officer in Charge, was arrested on the same two felony counts.
Non-Former County Employees Arrested
The two non-former county employees arrested were 23-year-old Jared Reiff, identified as the driver of the wrecked UTV, and 23-year-old Maddison Umphenour-Nolan. Reiff was arrested on a felony count of leaving the scene of an accident-failure to report an injury accident resulting in great bodily harm, while Umphenour-Nolan faced both felony counts.
The Investigation and Arrests
The Atchison County Sheriff’s Office released a statement regarding the arrests, emphasizing the diligent and thorough investigation conducted by deputies and investigators. The investigation stemmed from a UTV crash on September 2, 2023, in rural Atchison County, where the driver, Reiff, had allegedly fled the scene to avoid investigation for driving under the influence of alcohol. One passenger, Hannah Sparks, suffered severe, life-threatening injuries, while another passenger, Gracie Berry, sustained minor injuries.
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Release on Bond
Following their arrests, all five individuals were booked into the Atchison County Jail. As of Thursday morning, they had been released on bond, with Reiff’s set at $20,000 and the others at $10,000. The city of Valley Falls released a statement addressing Lanter’s arrest and status as the city administrator, stating that they were conducting a full investigation into the allegations against him.
This shocking incident has rocked the community and raised concerns about the actions of those entrusted with public safety. The fallout from these arrests is likely to have far-reaching implications for all involved. The investigation into the UTV crash continues, as authorities work to ensure justice is served in this troubling case..
former Atchison County employees arrested Wednesday on felony counts
former employees arrested on felony counts.
