Joshua Conant’s family is suing Roche Bar, its staff, and Port Huron Police after his death outside the bar last November. The lawsuit claims bouncers used deadly force and Officer Chelsea Koehn failed to act properly. Conant died from restraint-related cardiac arrest. The bar has since closed. The family is seeking over $75,000, alleging negligence, civil rights violations, and improper CPR. Defendants deny wrongdoing, blaming Conant’s actions. A status hearing is set for July 31st in federal court.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In Port Huron, Mayor Anita Ashford canceled a special meeting set for Monday to evaluate City Manager James Freed, deepening their ongoing dispute. That same day, Ashford tried to move Freed away from the council table, but the city attorney said he has the right to sit and speak there. Freed responded that he’ll stay in his usual seat unless formally removed. Their feud has shifted from behind the scenes to center stage, with legal threats and internal emails now drawing public attention.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Community Foundation of St. Clair County has awarded over $135,000 since ’20 to boost local public safety. Recent grants support Citizens Police Academies in St. Clair and Port Huron, helping residents and youth learn about police work and build trust. Port Huron’s youth programs received $7,200 for uniforms and supplies, while St. Clair’s academy got $15,000 to enhance training demos. These programs teach hands-on skills like fingerprinting and police scenarios, strengthening community ties and inspiring future local law enforcement careers.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

At last week’s meeting, the Sandusky City Council made decisions affecting the city’s future. After holding two closed sessions, the council approved purchasing a property located at 69 Lexington Street for $60,000, with the city covering all closing costs. This purchase is part of ongoing efforts to expand or improve city assets. Additionally, the council extended City Manager Dave Faber’s contract for another year and approved a 2.5% salary increase. These moves demonstrate the council’s commitment to both strategic growth and retaining experienced leadership in Sandusky.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet