George James

A Sarnia man, James Courtis, has been sentenced to five more years in prison after pleading guilty to possessing two loaded sawed-off shotguns, despite a lifetime firearms ban. Courtis was arrested at gunpoint in July after police responded to a 911 call from a terrified resident. The loaded guns were found in a duffel bag hidden nearby. Courtis faced 15 charges but pleaded guilty to four. Sarnia’s police chief highlighted the dangerous situation, and the prosecutor emphasized the ongoing concern over gun crime in the area.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Seniors in Michigan’s Thumb can now apply for free monthly food assistance through Focus: HOPE’s expanded Food for Seniors Program. The program now serves Huron, Sanilac, St. Clair, Lapeer, and Tuscola counties, aiming to help 2,000 more seniors. Eligible residents 60 and older can receive essentials like milk and canned goods, with options for pickup or home delivery. Seniors in Wayne, Macomb, Oakland, and Washtenaw counties can also access food boxes at health centers. Focus: HOPE encourages seniors to apply by emailing food@focushope.edu or visiting a distribution site.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Ryan Nisbett testified Thursday about the tragic death of his wife, Ashley, a Port Huron Northern High School teacher, following a drunk driving crash on Lakeshore Road. Ashley, who had survived for four days after the accident, passed away last October 24th. The man accused of causing the crash, Justin Simon, is on trial for operating a vehicle while intoxicated, causing death. The defense questioned the medical treatment Ashley received, suggesting hospital errors, but the medical examiner confirmed her death was due to the crash. Simon faces up to 15 years if convicted.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A trial in Sarnia will begin next week for one of the suspects involved in the murder of Windsor man Oyebode Oyenuga, whose body was found dismembered and burned on Walpole Island in ’21. While Jahton Blair of Scarborough faces trial, Saccara Johnson of Windsor avoided a joint trial by pleading guilty to kidnapping. She agreed to testify against Blair. Oyenuga’s death, linked to drug-related disputes, led to multiple arrests and convictions since his remains were discovered. Some suspects have already been sentenced, while two were cleared of charges.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Two St. Clair County men have been sentenced to two years probation for their involvement in the January 6 Capitol riots. Edward Amyot of St. Clair Township and Dominic Jakubowski of Clay Township were convicted of disorderly conduct after the FBI identified them in the crowd. Amyot, a suspended Kimball Township firefighter, and Jakubowski, a Michigan GOP committee member, both entered plea deals. They also face 60 days of house arrest. Jakubowski’s request to attend a gun show during house arrest was denied.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

St. Clair County Community College (SC4) has been awarded Gold Status by the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency for its strong support of military students. SC4 offers resources like a Veterans Lounge, priority registration, and help with education benefits. Local veterans and their families can access study spaces, computers, and more. SC4 staff expressed pride in serving those who have served the country and encouraged veterans to use these services. The Gold Status is the highest honor in Michigan’s Veteran-Friendly Schools program, which started in 2015.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet