In a Kansas court, Judge Webster presides over the case of Ryan Michelle Liku Shomer, a drug treatment worker charged with possession of marijuana after a prior conviction. The defendant pleads no contest to an amended charge, leading to a suspended six-month jail sentence and 12 months of probation. The hearing reveals tensions and procedural details, highlighting the complexities of drug-related offenses within the legal system.
In a recent court hearing in Greenwood County, Kansas, presided over by Judge Webster, a defendant named Ryan Michelle Liku Shomer, who works in drug treatment, faced charges related to drug possession. The proceedings revealed a complex legal situation involving amended charges, plea agreements, and judicial frustration.
The hearing began with the presence of the defendant, Ryan Michelle Liku Shomer, her attorney William McClendon, and the state prosecutor Jill Gillett. The case number was GW 2025 CR 190, State of Kansas versus Ryan Michelle Liku Shomer.
Initially, the defendant was represented by Attorney McClendon, but as the hearing progressed, the attorney's involvement seemed to diminish. The court discussed the possibility of another attorney, Miss Shomer, but the focus remained on the current representation.
The original charge against Ms. Shomer was possession of a controlled substance, specifically a third or subsequent offense, which is a level five drug felony due to two prior convictions. However, an amended complaint was filed, changing the charge to possession of marijuana with one prior conviction, classified as a class A misdemeanor.
Judge Webster reviewed the amended complaint and confirmed the details with the parties involved. The amended charge stated that on or about September 18, 2025, Ms. Shomer unlawfully and knowingly possessed marijuana, with one prior conviction in Jackson County.
Ms. Shomer entered a plea of no contest to the amended charge. The judge clarified that by pleading no contest, the defendant was not admitting guilt but also not denying the charge or opting for a trial. The plea was entered voluntarily without any threats or promises beyond the plea agreement.
The court accepted the plea and found a factual basis for it based on an affidavit prepared by Deputy Blake Fisher of the Greenwood County Sheriff’s Office. The affidavit detailed the circumstances of the arrest near the convenience store Pump and Pete in Eureka, Kansas.
The plea agreement included the following sentencing terms:
Judge Webster confirmed the agreement with both the prosecution and defense before imposing the sentence accordingly.
Throughout the hearing, Judge Webster maintained a firm and attentive demeanor. There were moments of apparent frustration, particularly regarding the defendant's active drug charges despite her role in drug treatment. The judge ensured that all legal procedures were followed meticulously, including verifying the defendant’s understanding of the plea and its consequences.
The attorney’s role seemed to fade as the hearing progressed, with the defendant appearing to take a more direct role in the proceedings. The judge’s questions and clarifications aimed to ensure that the plea was entered knowingly and voluntarily.
The case of Ryan Michelle Liku Shomer highlights the complexities involved when individuals working in drug treatment face drug-related charges themselves. The legal process involved careful consideration of prior convictions, amended charges, and plea agreements.
Judge Webster’s handling of the case underscores the judiciary’s role in balancing legal rigor with fairness, especially in sensitive cases involving substance-related offenses. The suspended jail sentence coupled with probation reflects an approach aimed at rehabilitation while upholding the law.
This case serves as a reminder of the challenges within the criminal justice system when addressing drug offenses and the importance of clear legal procedures to ensure just outcomes.
Case Summary:
The hearing took place in Greenwood County, Kansas, under case number GW 2025 CR 190.
