St. Clair County authorities are warning residents about a rising scam targeting families of recently arrested individuals. Scammers pose as law enforcement, claiming a loved one can be released on tether if immediate payment is made through apps like PayPal, Zelle, or ApplePay. Sheriff’s officials stress that no local agency will ever request money this way. Families who get suspicious calls should contact the Sheriff’s Office directly to verify before sending any funds. This alert comes after several reports in recent days across St. Clair County.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Lexington welcomed Fred Golda as its new fire chief on last Friday. Golda, a retired Sterling Heights firefighter, spent nearly 20 years in service and earned multiple awards before retiring in ’08. He takes over after former Chief Keefe Radtke resigned in September amid disputes with village leadership. Assistant Chief James Johnson had led the department in the interim. Village officials say Golda will help strengthen teamwork and guide the fire department forward. Congrats to him.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Bluewater Health has added advanced technology to improve breast cancer care for local patients. The hospital now offers Savi Scout ,which helps surgeons locate hard-to-find tumors with precision, while CADstream software enhances MRI analysis for more accurate diagnoses. These upgrades support better surgical results, faster recovery, and coordinated care from screening through treatment. The hospital emphasizes that early detection remains vital, with free mammograms available for ages 40–74 through the Ontario Breast Screening Program.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron residents are invited to a public meeting on October 29th at the DoubleTree Hotel, 800 Harker St., from 6 to 7:30 p.m. The Michigan PFAS Action Response Team (MPART) will discuss local PFAS contamination, which comes from human-made chemicals used in manufacturing, firefighting, and everyday products. Officials from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services will cover potential health impacts, while the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy will share investigation results and next steps. Attendees can ask questions after the presentations.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Port Huron man convicted of killing a woman more than 50 years ago received a new sentence last Friday. Chris Hansen, now 69, was 16 when he shot Clara Gilmore in her home during a planned robbery in ’73. Under a Michigan Supreme Court ruling, Hansen’s life sentence was deemed unconstitutional for minors.

A Circuit Court Judge resentenced him to 50 to 90 years, giving credit for the 52 years he has already served. Hansen apologized in court, taking responsibility for the crime, but his chances of release remain very low.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet