George James

Port Huron Murder Case Miranda Dispute

A Port Huron murder case may face a major legal hurdle as the attorney for 36-year-old Sayon Florence moves to block her police statements from trial. Florence’s lawyer claims her Miranda Rights were violated during a February 12th interrogation, arguing she had already requested a lawyer in an earlier interview about the Vanness Street shooting death of Vincent Buckles. Prosecutors counter that she had been released from jail in late January and could have sought legal counsel. Judge Michael West will hear arguments on the motion August 25th.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Woman Scammed Out of $17K

A 95-year-old Sigel Township resident fell victim to a phone scam last week, losing $17,000. Michigan State Police say the woman was called by someone claiming to be her son, along with another person posing as a public defender demanding bail money for a supposed accident.

Couriers picked up the cash in two separate trips: first, a tall man in a dark gray Chevrolet Malibu, then a heavy-set woman in a black Jeep. Troopers urge anyone with information to contact Tpr. Dennis Bills or D/Sgt. Daniel Inman.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Blue Water Convention Center

Rubik’s Cube Championship

This weekend, Port Huron’s Blue Water Convention Center will buzz with fast fingers and sharp minds as the Michigan Rubik’s Cube Championship takes over Lake Huron Hall. Through Sunday, 152 competitors—both veterans and first-timers—will race to solve classic and specialty cubes, including 3×3, 4×4, Pyraminx, and more. Challenges include one-handed, blindfolded, and Fewest Moves events. Timers track every twist and turn, and mistakes can disqualify a solve. The championship is free for spectators, offering a fun, chance to watch puzzles solved at lightning speed.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Grant Township Man to be Resentenced

In St. Clair County, Justin Rose, sentenced to life in prison for a ’96 shooting during a Grant Township robbery, will be resentenced. Judge Cynthia Lane ruled Rose’s sentences for conspiracy to commit first-degree murder and assault with intent to murder need review after a recent Supreme Court decision said life sentences are unconstitutional for juveniles. Rose was 16 at the time of the crime. The court plans to hold the resentencing hearing October 3rd. The shooting severely injured store owner Dale Reusser.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

City Manager Earns Strong Review

Port Huron City Manager James Freed earned a strong 4.3 out of 5 in his annual review, adopted by City Council after a rare closed-door session Monday. The 35-minute discussion, requested by Freed, covered clarifications on his evaluation scores. Mayor Anita Ashford and Council Member Barbara Payton opposed going private, with Ashford leaving the session early. Mayor Pro Tem Sherry Archibald chaired the meeting, noting it was the first time in 16 years a review was handled this way. Freed thanked the council for its support, calling the results “very positive.”

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

New Nurse Practitioner Joins Peck Medical Center

McKenzie Health System has added Nurse Practitioner Kristin Dubay to its team at Peck Medical Center in Sanilac County. A Smiths Creek native, Kristin brings experience in cardiac and surgical nursing and recently completed her master’s degree in nursing. She is passionate about serving local families with personalized care close to home. Kristin worked in Sandusky during her training and appreciates the strong community spirit. She now joins Dr. Bradley Coplin to provide healthcare at Peck Medical Center, welcoming new patients. Appointments can be made by calling or visit www.McKenzieHealth.org.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet