Local News

Attorneys for a former St. Clair County jail inmate, Lisa Brown, have agreed to delay the discovery deadline in her federal lawsuit by four months, pushing it to July. Brown is suing St. Clair County, the jail, and a health provider after a 2021 fall in the jail left her partially paralyzed. She claims the jail’s delayed medical care worsened her condition. Both sides are preparing witness lists, including medical experts, as they continue reviewing her injuries. The delay allows more time for gathering evidence and depositions.

Reporting for WGRT, JP bZet.

St. Clair County Community College is adding men’s and women’s track teams next year, enhancing its successful cross-country program. Competing in the National Junior College Athletic Association, the new teams will offer more opportunities for local athletes. Athletic Director Dale Vos highlights the benefits for sprinters and middle-distance runners. Coaches Andrea Rheaume and Max Whittredge will lead the women’s and men’s teams, respectively. SC4 now offers 17 collegiate sports, including baseball, basketball, and soccer. Interested assistant coach candidates can apply online.

Reporting for WGRT, JP bZet.

In a follow up story, a 33-year-old Fort Gratiot man, Brent Durrant, was arrested after allegedly stabbing a 56-year-old relative on Parker Road. The St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office apprehended him on Saturday after a search. A 55-year-old woman was also injured with cuts on her hands. Durrant, who has mental health issues, was charged with assault with intent to murder and arraigned Tuesday, with bond set at $250,000.

A Sarnia man, Bradley Kelly, 24, has been sentenced to another nine months in jail for weapons offences. Kelly, already serving time for similar incidents at the local hospital, was caught on March 15th with illegal knives while wearing a mask on Brock Street North. Despite explaining he carried the knives for protection, a judge emphasized that weapons are still illegal. Kelly, who has a troubled past, also breached previous probation and weapons bans, extending his jail time. He now faces an additional two-year probation and a 10-year weapons ban.

Port Huron City Council will decide on Monday whether to ask for a speed study on Military Street and Electric Avenue, aiming to reduce speeding. City Manager James Freed says residents have long complained about fast cars on these major roads, which connect Port Huron and Marysville. The study, required by MDOT and Michigan State Police, could lead to lower speed limits. If approved, the city may increase police patrols to enforce any changes, ensuring safety for families in the area.

A Lapeer man, 37 year old Eric John Rydzewski, was arrested last week for possessing child sexually abusive material and using a computer to commit a crime. Michigan State Police seized digital evidence from his home after discovering he was viewing illegal content online. He was charged with multiple felonies and arraigned in Lapeer County’s 71-A District Court. Rydzewski posted a $50,000 bond and pleaded not guilty. The MSP urges parents to discuss online safety with their children.