Dan Plain, a 34-year-old from Sarnia, is back in court after a series of legal troubles. Recently, Plain, who has struggled with drug addiction, received a two-month sentence for assault. His lawyer, Terry Brandon, believes Plain is ready for a fresh start. Judge Deborah Austin hopes Plain will use this opportunity to turn his life around. Plain, who had faced numerous charges including home invasion with a hammer, has no current outstanding charges. He is now working towards a better future.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron’s Lighthouse and Lakeside Beaches saw a major boost in revenue this summer, bringing in over $367 thousand, up 24% from last year. This increase is largely due to a hike in parking pass prices at Lakeside Beach, which now costs $30 for out-of-county visitors. The city plans to use the funds for park upgrades, including a new jungle gym and parking lot improvements at Lakeside. Most renovations are expected to be completed before next summer, with some extending into the fall.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Lambton County is set to extend its freeze on new grants for community groups into next year due to budget challenges. This freeze, which began in ’21, will remain in place if a recent county council motion is approved next month. Local organizations, such as hospitals and Lambton College, previously had the chance to apply for county funding and present their cases before the budget discussions. However, with a projected $550,000 deficit and growing debt, the county is focused on cost containment. Despite this, Lambton will continue funding existing grants in ’25.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A jury in St. Clair County has cleared Justin Simon of causing a Port Huron teacher’s death in a drunk driving crash but found him guilty of operating a vehicle while intoxicated, leading to serious injury. Simon admitted to causing the October accident, which left Ashley Nisbett hospitalized. His lawyer argued the hospital played a role in her death, but the prosecution said Simon was responsible since the crash put her there. Simon will be sentenced on Nov. 26, facing up to five years in prison.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Donald Rivard, a 44-year-old from Sarnia, is set to begin a four-year prison sentence for fentanyl trafficking. He was one of nine arrested last fall during police raids in Lambton and Middlesex counties. Rivard expressed frustration in court, stating his co-accused had their charges dropped after he pleaded guilty. Rivard was arrested with fentanyl, meth, and $400 in cash. He claims the drugs were for personal use, not for sale. His girlfriend, Carly Timms, had her charges dismissed. Despite his plea deal, Rivard faces additional charges in Newmarket.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet