KU vice provost at LMH as condition improves

The health of Kansas University associate vice provost Richard Morrell continues to improve.

Morrell suffered a lacerated spleen and two broken ribs in a Dec. 24 car accident near 27th and Iowa streets. Morrell had been in intensive care at Overland Park Regional Hospital, but Lawrence Memorial Hospital spokeswoman Belinda Rehmer said Morrell was transferred Friday to LMH and listed in good condition.

Marlesa Roney, KU vice provost, said she expected Morrell to be back at work this spring.

Sgt. Mike Pattrick of the Lawrence Police Department said the cause of the accident was still under investigation.

Crime

Judge orders screening for teen involved in attack

A judge is giving another chance to an Emporia teen who took part in a near-fatal attack on a Mayetta man March 10, 2003, at a North Lawrence motel.

Sara M. Bruce, 19, failed to complete the Labette Correctional Conservation Camp, prosecutors said Friday. It was a term of her probation after being convicted of aggravated battery in connection with the robbery and attack on Josh Greemore.

When Bruce appeared Friday before Judge Jack Murphy in Douglas County District Court, he could have ordered a prison sentence of nearly four years. Instead he ordered Bruce to be screened to see if she’s eligible for an in-patient drug and alcohol treatment program in Johnson County.

Bruce will be back in court Feb. 13.