Local News

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

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

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