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

In Mayfield Township, Lapeer County, a delivery truck struck a power line on Tuesday, causing a two-alarm fire. The downed line ignited a small grass fire, which spread to a nearby shed that was completely destroyed. Firefighters from Lapeer, Deerfield, and Columbiaville responded quickly, containing the flames before they could spread further. Over 600 residents experienced temporary power outages as DTE isolated the area to ensure safety. No injuries were reported, and officials remind the public to avoid downed wires and report them immediately for safety reasons.

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

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

On Monday, Port Huron’s St. Clair County Drug Task Force arrested 37-year-old Ashton Wesley after a long investigation into narcotics sales. Wesley was taken into custody near his workplace, and a search of his home on Whipple Street uncovered cocaine, mushrooms, prescription pills, MDMA, cash, firearms, and drug-related materials. With the help of the Port Huron Major Crimes Unit, deputies seized the items. Wesley faces multiple charges, including possession with intent to deliver drugs and felony firearm. His bond was set at $50,000.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet