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Local News

Woman Sentenced for Foster Child Abuse

A St. Clair County judge sentenced a 39-year-old woman to six to 10 years in prison after finding she abused two foster children over several years. Prosecutors said the children were kept in cages, isolated, and punished in degrading ways, including forced cold showers and other acts meant to humiliate them. The judge called the treatment “inhumane” and rejected the woman’s claims she sought help. The charges were reduced in a plea deal, but the court still imposed multiple concurrent sentences. The defendant received credit for time already served.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Man Escapes Ravine Crash

A Croswell man is recovering after a late-night rollover crash in Sanilac County sent his car into a water-filled ravine. Deputies say the 41-year-old was driving east on Marlette Road around 11:30 p.m. Saturday when his vehicle veered off the road, broke through a guardrail, crossed a culvert, and ended up submerged. Despite injuries, he managed to escape and walk to a nearby home for help. He was taken to McLaren Port Huron for treatment. The crash remains under investigation, and his name has not been released.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Set Sail for Autism Race Returns

Port Huron is gearing up for a unique Boat Week event focused on local students with special needs. The Set Sail for Autism and More race is set for July 12th, giving kids in special education programs a chance to experience sailing firsthand. The race begins at 10 a.m; with prime viewing at Lakeside Beach, and boats are expected to finish near Lighthouse Beach around noon. Hosted by the Port Huron Yacht Club, the event also raises money to support special education programs, helping expand resources and opportunities for students and their families.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Summer Events Feature Lighthouse Tours

Port Huron area families have a full slate of summer activities as nearby Port Sanilac opens rare public tours of its historic lighthouse while also hosting a community field day. Starting now, Friday afternoon lighthouse tours run noon to 4 p.m. through August, offering tower climbs and Lake Huron views for $10, with proceeds supporting local preservation. Select Saturdays add festival access. Meanwhile, Family Fun Field Day features games, crafts, emergency vehicles, and local groups, ending with an outdoor showing of “Jumanji” at dusk.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Board Acts to Recover $80,000

Worth Township leaders held a special meeting Thursday and voted to reverse past approvals that wrongly paid over forty thousand dollars each to former clerk Jennifer Marshall and treasurer Jennifer Woodruff from the sewer fund for duties already compensated. Citing Michigan law that bans extra pay after work is done, the board directed its attorney to take legal steps to recover the improperly issued money. Residents expressed frustration with the former officials, while praising current trustees for addressing the issue and working to protect township funds.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Park Launches Major Habitat Restoration

Starting today, crews will begin spraying to remove invasive plants at Columbus County Park as part of a major effort to restore about 100 acres of rare native grassland. Backed by state funding, the project aims to create better habitat for songbirds, pollinators, and other local wildlife. Some areas will close for a few hours while the spray dries, with signs posted to guide visitors. Park officials ask everyone to follow the closures and staff directions for safety during this important first step.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet