A former Macomb County Sheriff’s sergeant, James Stanley, is set to receive a $250,000 payout after a federal appeals court upheld a jury’s decision that the county retaliated against him. Stanley’s First Amendment rights were violated when he faced backlash for supporting Sheriff Wickersham’s opponent in the ’12 election. Stanley had sued the county after a series of demotions and criminal charges, all of which were eventually dismissed. The Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals confirmed the jury’s verdict, finalizing Stanley’s award after years of legal battles.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Dale Vos, longtime men’s basketball coach at St. Clair County Community College (SC4), was inducted into the Basketball Coaches Association of Michigan Hall of Fame at a banquet in Pontiac on Sunday. Vos led SC4’s Skippers to 504 wins over a 30-year career, earning multiple district, regional, and national championships. SC4 President Kirk Kramer praised Vos for his dedication to students and his impact on the Port Huron community. This recognition adds to Vos’s long list of awards, including being named MCCAA Coach of the Year in ’21.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Carmello Wilson testified in a St. Clair County court that he shot 19-year-old KC Curtis Cureton in self-defense after months of alleged threats from Cureton. However, during cross-examination, Wilson admitted not seeing a knife when he shot Cureton, despite claiming earlier that he believed Cureton had one. The defense argued Wilson acted out of fear, while the prosecution questioned the credibility of his claims. Wilson faces life in prison if convicted.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

On Thursday communities around the globe will come together to celebrate International Credit Union or ICU Day. This year’s theme, “One World Through Cooperative Finance,” highlights the importance of credit unions in fostering unity and support among members. Since 1948, ICU Day has served as an opportunity to reflect on the history of the credit union movement and recognize the hard work of financial cooperatives. Local credit unions will host a variety of events, such as fundraisers, open houses, and volunteering activities.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Local volunteers are gearing up for National Collection Week, set for November 18th thru 25th, when Operation Christmas Child will gather shoebox gifts for children in need. With over 4,700 drop-off spots opening nationwide, local packers can easily find where to donate their shoeboxes. Since its launch in 1993, the initiative has provided gifts to children affected by war, poverty, and disaster, aiming to reach 12 million more kids this year. Franklin Graham, president of Samaritan’s Purse, says these gifts, offer hope and a chance to share the message of God’s love.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Joshua Collier, 34, was recently sentenced to 7-15 years in prison for a ’22 fatal crash while intoxicated. He also received 39 months to 5 years for causing injury in the same incident, served concurrently. Despite his schizophrenia diagnosis, a jury found him guilty, citing nitrous oxide use. Collier’s mental health issues were noted, but the court emphasized his responsibility. During the sentencing, victims’ relatives urged the judge for a lengthy prison term, while Collier ultimately chose not to make a statement after an argument with the judge.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet