Marlette residents will decide the fate of recreational marijuana businesses in the August election. Last week, the city council hit pause on all pot shop rules and applications after a petition made the ballot. The proposal would completely ban recreational dispensaries and grows inside city limits. If voters say yes to the ban, only the existing medical marijuana grow on Karen Street stays; nothing new opens. If voters reject it, the council will move forward with strict rules allowing a limited number of pot businesses.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Sarnia police reported a late-night stabbing on Devine Street last Tuesday, leaving a 17-year-old girl injured on her arm and back. Officers say the incident began as a personal dispute that turned physical. An 18-year-old woman barricaded herself in a nearby home but surrendered peacefully after police, including the K-9 and Emergency Response teams, arrived with a warrant. The teen was treated at a local hospital and is in stable condition. Alivia Martin-Read faces three charges and remains in police custody.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The St. Clair County murder trial of Wyatt Stimac is now in the jury’s hands after both sides rested their cases Thursday. Prosecutors played Stimac’s interview where he admitted following his father into the garage and firing five shots. The defense argued the killing wasn’t planned and should not be first-degree murder. A knife-related charge was dismissed, but the main charge stays. Jurors returned Friday for instructions and closing arguments. Stimac faces life in prison if convicted, plus two years for the firearm.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A jury trial began Tuesday for Wyatt Stimac, 24, accused of killing his father, Shane Stimac, at their St. Clair Township home in March. Prosecutors told jurors his sister and mother would testify that Wyatt admitted to the shooting, and that earlier he had a heated confrontation with his father. Defense attorneys said the killing was impulsive, not premeditated. Wyatt’s sister described a crowded home, her brother following their father, then hearing gunshots. She found Shane Stimac bleeding and called 911. First-degree murder carries up to life in prison.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet