TOPEKA, KS — April 9, 2025 — This week’s Shawnee County booking report reads like a true crime binge — featuring arson, identity theft, drug charges, and more than $100,000 in bonds racked up by a single suspect. Here are some of the most notable arrests over the past 24 hours:
Christopher Mehmel Sets Fire to the Headlines
Christopher Michael Mehmel, 40, was booked on charges of arson after allegedly setting fire to someone else’s home. He’s also facing a domestic battery charge and has an outstanding $1,890 bench warrant. Mehmel is being held without bond.
Jimmy Ray Kendall’s $105,000 Rap Sheet
With charges spanning burglary, stalking, and criminal threats, Jimmy Ray Kendall may have earned himself a permanent spot in the courthouse. The charges include:
- Burglary of a dwelling
- Criminal damage to property
- Theft under $1,500
- Criminal threat
- Stalking after being served a protection order
- A hold from another Kansas county
His bond totals $105,000, not including the no-bond hold from outside the county.
Amber Jean Stewart and the Identity Theft Cascade
Amber Jean Stewart, 22, was arrested on multiple charges, including:
- Identity theft
- Interference with law enforcement
- Driving on a suspended license
- Possession of marijuana
- Drug paraphernalia
- Traffic violations
Each charge came with a $2,500 bond, and her release came later the same day.
A Narcotics Bust—and a Bike Light Violation
Leonides Caraballo-Carmona, 56, was arrested for possession of narcotics and drug paraphernalia. What makes his case stand out is an added charge: riding a bicycle at night without a lamp. He remains in custody without bond.
Angel Felipe Ramos: $27,565 in Warrants
Angel Felipe Ramos was taken into custody on Topeka bench warrants totaling $27,565. Though specific charges weren’t listed, the amount suggests multiple or significant past violations.
Also Booked:
- Matthew Hughes – felony probation violation, no bond
- Lamont Wilhoite – federal hold, no bond
- Jennifer Wood – multiple Topeka bench warrants and a hold for positive identification
- Ahmad Grubbs – interference with law enforcement and fleeing on foot
Shawnee County’s booking report this week offers a glimpse into the stories unfolding behind the jailhouse walls. With charges ranging from violent crimes to bike safety violations, some of these cases will no doubt develop into headline-worthy trials.
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