Local News

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

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