Local News

The Sexual Assault Survivors’ Centre Sarnia-Lambton has rebranded and is now known simply as “The Centre.” Executive Director Chantel Butterfield explained that the change aims to make the organization’s services more inclusive. The term “sexual assault” felt too limiting and gendered, and could discourage those seeking help. The new name reflects their commitment to assisting everyone affected by sexual harm or gender-based violence. With this update, The Centre also unveiled a new tagline: “Building a community free from sexual harm and gender-based violence.”

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Former Warren police officer Matthew Rodriguez was sentenced to just over a year in federal prison for using excessive force on a detainee back in ’13. Rodriguez was caught on video punching and slamming Jaquwan Smith’s head during booking, an incident that drew significant public attention. He will remain free until his prison assignment and was fined a $100 special assessment fee instead of the $250,000 initially considered. Rodriguez, who had previously been disciplined for similar behavior, now faces a $50 million lawsuit from Smith.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Two Sarnia men were arrested after a break-in at a Vidal Street South business early Sunday. Police found one suspect near a hole in the fence, claiming to work there, while another was hiding in a truck bed with bolt cutters. Both face charges, including mischief and break-and-enter. In a separate incident, three people from Lambton Shores and Kettle and Stony Point First Nation were charged with drug trafficking after a traffic stop.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Ken Jennings, known for his record-breaking run on Jeopardy! and now the show’s host, made a stop in Port Huron on Monday. He kicked off the 70th Port Huron Town Hall season, sharing stories about his journey from a Jeopardy! contestant to host. Growing up in South Korea, he watched the show on American Forces Network, sparking his love for trivia. Local residents packed McMorran Place Theater to hear Jennings encourage fans to try out for the game show if they enjoy playing along at home.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A year after Brad Ogilvie went missing, Sarnia police arrested three people in connection with his murder. His father, Glenn Ogilvie, expressed mixed emotions, saying the news was devastating but not unexpected due to the lack of contact from Brad. Three individuals—Robin Maness, Trevor Waller, and Niki Cottrelle—were charged with first-degree murder. Brad struggled with addiction, and his father stressed the need for better support for those battling drug abuse. Police continue to search for Brad’s remains and are seeking public assistance.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron will hold its annual 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony at the International Flag Plaza on Thomas Edison Parkway this morning. The event will honor the first responders who lost their lives during the 2001 attacks. Port Huron Police Chief Brian Kerrigan highlighted the sacrifice of 343 firefighters and 72 police officers who died while saving others. The ceremony begins at 9. If weather is bad, it will move to the Municipal Office Building on McMorran Boulevard.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet