A Georgia man, accused of identity theft, criminal use of a financial card, and conspiracy to commit criminal use of a financial card, appeared in Lyon County District Court in Emporia for the first time on Monday, as announced by Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach.
The Kansas Attorney General’s Office has announced its first prosecution of an organized retail-crime case since the state Legislature passed a new law in 2023. This development is significant for law enforcement officials, as it demonstrates their commitment to combatting retail crime and protecting businesses. The case serves as a reminder that retail crime is a serious offense that will be met with legal consequences.
Demetrius Odom, the individual charged in the case, has chosen to waive an extradition hearing. This decision means that he will now face charges in Lyon County related to retail crime. The news release from Kobach’s office announced this development.
According to the news release, Odom, along with an alleged co-conspirator, is accused of stealing from multiple liquor stores across Kansas.
According to a news release, Dwayne Rhoden, who was a co-defendant with Odom, was arrested in July in Kentucky on unrelated felony charges. However, Rhoden has refused to waive extradition and now the state is seeking a Governor’s warrant to bring him back.
The Kansas Attorney General’s Office has made its first organized retail crime prosecution, according to a news release. In 2023, the Kansas Legislature passed a law that enables prosecutors to pursue felony charges in retail crimes and organized retail crime cases, rather than focusing on minor theft charges.
According to a news release, Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach expressed gratitude to the Legislature for granting the Office of the Attorney General the power to combat this widespread type of crime. Kobach referred to the prosecution as a significant milestone in the fight against identity theft.
The Lyon County Courthouse has scheduled a preliminary hearing for Odom’s charges at 2:30 p.m. on October 21.
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Local Bakery Donates Over 500 Pies to Homeless Shelter
Local Business Gives Back to the Community
In a heartwarming gesture of goodwill, a local bakery in our community donated over 500 pies to a homeless shelter last week. The bakery, known for its delicious and freshly baked goods, wanted to give back to the community that has supported them for years.
The owner of the bakery, Sarah Thompson, said, “We wanted to do something special to show our gratitude to the community. We know that there are many people who are less fortunate and may not have access to a warm meal during the holiday season. Donating these pies was our way of giving back and spreading some joy.”
Bringing Joy to Those in Need
The pies were delivered to the local homeless shelter on Wednesday evening, just in time for their Thanksgiving dinner. The shelter, which provides food and shelter to those in need, was overjoyed by the donation.
“It was such a wonderful surprise,” said Maria Rodriguez, the director of the shelter. “We rely on the generosity of local businesses and individuals to help us feed the homeless population. This donation of 500 pies will go a long way in ensuring that everyone has a warm and delicious meal on Thanksgiving.”
This act of kindness not only provided a delicious treat for those in need but also brought a sense of joy and community to the shelter. Many of the residents expressed their gratitude and shared stories of past Thanksgivings, reminiscing about the comfort and warmth that a homemade pie brings.
A Tradition of Giving Back
This is not the first time the bakery has shown its commitment to the community. They regularly donate leftover baked goods to local charities and participate in fundraising events for various causes.
“Giving back is part of our business philosophy,” Thompson explained. “We believe that businesses have a responsibility to support their communities and make a positive impact. It’s not just about selling products; it’s about creating a sense of belonging and making a difference.”
The bakery’s generous donation of pies to the homeless shelter is a true testament to their dedication to giving back and spreading joy in our community.
