Among the most senior officials in Ottawa, there is a document circulating that outlines specific details about how Canada could retaliate against Donald Trump’s tariff threat.

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One of the unique manoeuvres wrestler Sweet Daddy Siki inflicted upon his opponents was an incapacitating reverse chin lock he called “the Beatnik Hangman.” His more remarkable grip was the hold he had on audiences across Canada.

Born Elkin James, the native Texan and transplanted Torontonian was an acrobatic African-American Adonis who typically arrived to the ring at Maple Leaf Gardens and elsewhere in the 1960s, ‘70s and ‘80s sporting a sequined cape and radiating a flamboyant air. Sometimes an assistant would help him remove a pair of white gloves, dramatically and meticulously. As a wrestler, the 245-pound Mr. Siki was a springy mauler known for flying leg licks.

Premier Andrew Furey fired back at U.S. President-Elect Donald Tump today, after comments on using economic force to take over Canada. While some are taking those comments lightly, the premier is not. NTV’s Bailey Howard has the story.

Avalon MP Ken Mcdonald was the first member of caucus to come out publicly a year ago and say the Liberal party needed a leadership review. In Ottawa today, he faced questions about who the next Pime Minister should be, and the latest threats from Donald Trump. 

It’s a software platform used by every school in this province from K-12, in the public and private education system. However, a cyber-security breach within the PowerSchool network has now left student data compromised. Here’s NTV’s Jodi Cooke.

Day 3 of debate over the Churchill Falls MOU continued in the House of Assembly today. One energy consultant explained why he things now is the time for a deal. NTV’s Ben Cleary has more in this report. 

A trip to the grocery store might cost you extra this year as food prices are expected to rise. As NTV’s Marykate O’Neill tells us, organizations are feeling the pinch and concerns are mounting for the most food insecure province in the country. 

The province is warning residents of fraudulent text messages telling people to pay a large amount of money to keep their driver’s license from being suspended. NTV’s Becky Daley reports.

Outdoor enthusiasts in many parts of the province are still waiting for more snow before they can strap on their skis, or hit the snowmobile trails. That delay is causing concerns for businesses that cater to the outdoor lifestyle. NTV’s Don Bradshaw reports.

NTV’s Amanda Mews catches up with actor, director and producer Allan Hawco, to chat about his latest creative project, one that spans two countries. Here’s the Backstage Pass.

Wotstak man sentenced to 150 days or time served

Greg McCormick, 36, of Wotstak (Woodstock First Nation), appeared in provincial court in custody for sentencing on Jan. 7 after changing his plea to guilty on several charges laid by RCMP.

Judge Nicole Angers sentenced him to 150 days in jail or time served. McCormick was released from custody and ordered to register with the federal DNA database. He is also prohibited from possessing weapons for five years.

McCormick pleaded guilty to breaching his release order by violating electronic monitoring (ankle bracelet) and mischief causing property damage to the device on Sept. 24, 2024, at Wotstak. He was ordered to pay $20 restitution for damaging the bracelet.

He also pleaded guilty to breach of a no-contact order and guilty to assault with a weapon (bear spray and a box cutter) on Sept. 21, 2024, at Wotstak. Crown withdrew two other charges.

In addition, McCormick pleaded guilty to mischief causing property damage (a window and a vehicle) on July 16, 2023, at Wotstak. He received a suspended sentence and 18 months of probation for this offence. The crown withdrew two other charges.

He also pleaded guilty to assaulting another man while carrying a weapon (a knife) following an incident on Feb. 15, 2024, at Wotstak. The crown withdrew one other charge. McCormick remains in custody. He had a limited prior criminal record.

All weapons seized during the investigation were forfeited to the crown. The court heard the charges were related to an ongoing dispute with his neighbours. As a result, a no-contact order was imposed. McCormick must also seek mental health counselling as required.

Sentencing decision reserved

Marshall Turner, 24, of Beaconsfield, appeared in provincial court in custody by video for sentencing on Jan. 8 after changing his plea to guilty on several charges laid by RCMP.  Judge Karen Lee reserved her decision on sentence until Jan. 24 at 1:30 p.m.

Crown Prosecutor Kyle Horsman told the court Turner deserved 18 months in jail, minus time served, as well as 18 months of probation. The crown also requested a two-year driving prohibition and an order for Turner to register with the DNA database. Horsman said Turner would have five more months left to serve once his remand time was applied.

Defence Counsel Wanda Severns argued Turner should be sentenced to 390 days in jail or time served, noting her client had been in custody since last April. The defence said Turner’s crimes were linked to substance abuse and he was too young to spend several more months behind bars. Turner had a prior criminal record.

RCMP charged Turner with possession of stolen vehicle, flight from police, breach of probation and possession of a stolen fuel pump in connection with a police chase across Carleton North on April 23, 2024, that ended in Johnville.

He pleaded guilty to possessing the stolen vehicle and breach of probation, and the crown withdrew the remaining two charges.

He was also charged with possessing a stolen vehicle on April 13, 2024, in Greenfield. The crown withdrew that charge.

Turner also pleaded guilty to possession of stolen vehicle, breach of probation, dangerous driving and driving without insurance on April 18, 2024, in Perth-Andover.  The crown requested a restitution order of $12,991 for the stolen truck.

The court heard Turner was charged following an accident on Route 130 near Bairdsville when he fell asleep at the wheel and collided with a transport truck.

Turner appeared in provincial court in custody by video on June 18, 2024, and waived his bail until later.

60 days or time served

Joshua Sisson, 37, of Neqotkuk (Tobique First Nation), appeared in provincial court in custody on Dec. 23 for sentencing after changing his plea to guilty on several charges. He was handed 60 days in jail or time served and was released from custody. Sisson was also placed on 18 months of probation.

He appeared in court in custody by video for a bail hearing on Nov. 14, 2024, and was remanded to jail. RCMP charged him with two counts of uttering threats for an incident on Nov. 1, 2024, at Neqotkuk. He was also charged with flight from police on Sept. 24, 2024.

He changed his plea to guilty on one threat charge and the flight charge on Dec. 17, 2024, and told the court he was planning to enter a rehab facility after his release.

Sisson also pleaded guilty to assault with a weapon (a bottle) involving a female victim, assault, and one count of uttering threats in connection with an incident on April 8, 2024, at Neqotkuk.  He was ordered to have no contact with the complainant.

He was also charged with attempted break and enter and mischief causing property damage to a shed on Sept. 24, 2024, at Neqotkuk.

Suspended sentence, probation for mischief

Issiah Tobi Gabriel, 22, of Canterbury, appeared in provincial court on Jan. 7 for sentencing after pleading guilty to a mischief charge laid by RCMP. He received a suspended sentence and 12 months of probation.

Gabriel was charged with mischief causing property damage to a vehicle (a windshield) in connection with an incident on May 2, 2024, at Canterbury.

Judge Nicole Angers recommended Gabriel seek counselling for anger management and said he must have no contact with the complainant. He had a prior criminal record.

Sentencing set for drug trafficking

William Jarred O’Donnell, 28, of Grafton, appeared for trial in provincial court in custody on Jan. 2 on drug trafficking charges. He changed his plea to guilty, and a sentencing date was set for Feb. 3 at 9:30 a.m.

Woodstock Police charged him with possession of methamphetamine, possession of cocaine, and possession of fentanyl for the purpose of trafficking in connection with an incident on May 21, 2024, in Woodstock. He was remanded to jail and denied bail.

Woodstock Police also charged O’Donnell with breach of a release order and mail theft on May 2, 2024, in Woodstock.

Fined for killing dog

Glen Avery, 72, of Bubartown, received a conditional discharge and one year of probation after pleading guilty to willfully killing a dog without the owner’s consent. He was fined $100 and ordered to donate $500 to the SPCA.

RCMP charged Avery in connection with an incident on July 27, 2022, in Bubartown. The court heard Avery shot the dog following a family dispute. He had no prior criminal record.

Guilty of impaired driving

Garrett Wayne Russell, 20, of Upper Woodstock, appeared in provincial court on Jan. 7 and pleaded guilty to impaired driving. He was fined $1,300 and was prohibited from driving for one year.

Woodstock Police charged Russell following an incident on Sept. 21, 2024, in Woodstock. He had no prior criminal record. The court heard the charge was laid after police spotted a truck crossing the yellow line around 5 a.m. in the town.

Released with conditions

Samuel Robert Crewe, 27, of Woodstock, appeared in provincial court in custody for a bail hearing on Jan. 6. He was released with conditions and returns to court for plea on Feb. 4 at 9:30 a.m.

Crewe was arrested on the weekend. RCMP charged him with two counts of flight from police, dangerous driving and driving while prohibited in connection with an incident in Kirkland on Jan. 4. He has a prior criminal record.

Facing three charges

Damian Oakes, 26, of Coldstream, will appear in provincial court on Feb. 4 at 9:30 a.m. to answer three charges laid by RCMP.

Oakes was charged with indictable sexual assault, touching for a sexual purpose, and using a weapon to commit an assault (a lighter) in connection with an incident between Jan. 1, 2017 and Dec. 13, 2021. He made his first court appearance on Jan. 7 when the matter was adjourned to the new date.

Arrested and released

Derrick Goodine, 67, of Oxbow, Victoria County, appeared in provincial court in custody on Jan. 6 for a bail hearing. He was released with conditions and returns to court for plea on Jan. 28 at 9:30 a.m.

Goodine was arrested on the weekend. RCMP charged him with making a visual recording of a person while they were nude without their consent.  The charge was laid under summary conviction.

Trial testimony involves domestic violence

Christopher Hazen Hamilton, 50, of Woodstock, appeared in provincial court on Jan. 8 for his trial after pleading not guilty to 12 charges laid by Woodstock Police.

Judge Sebastian Michaud heard testimony from police officers and the female victim who described horrific details of domestic violence involving the accused. The trial continued late into the afternoon on Wednesday.

Hamilton appeared in custody by video on June 10 and was released from custody with conditions, including wearing an electronic monitoring device attached to his ankle.

He was charged with assaulting involving a female victim, assault by choking, three counts of uttering threats, assault with a weapon (a broken teacup) and attempting to cause injury and suffering to a dog, concerning incidents between March 1 and May 24, 2024, in Woodstock.

Hamilton was also charged with assaulting a female victim, uttering threats and mischief causing property damage on May 25, 2024, and assaulting a female victim and assault with a weapon (a cigar) on May 26, 2024. The alleged incidents occurred in Woodstock. He spent several days in remand prior to his release.

Fined for impaired driving

Angela O’Donnell, 57, of Glassville, appeared in provincial court on Jan. 7 and pleaded guilty to an impaired driving charge. She was fined $1,800 and was prohibited from driving for 18 months.

O’Donnell was charged by RCMP following an accident on June 16, 2024, at Fielding when a vehicle left the highway and struck a tree around 1:10 a.m. Police found open liquor in the vehicle. O’Donnell had no prior criminal record.

Remanded for sentencing

Kyrin Moulton, 19, of Grand Falls, formerly of Neqotkuk, appeared in court in custody on Jan. 6 for a bail hearing after being arrested on a warrant for failing to appear in court.

Moulton waived his bail and pleaded guilty. He returns to court in custody for sentencing on Feb. 18 at 1:30 p.m.

Moulton appeared in provincial court in custody by video on Oct. 24, 2024, for a bail hearing and was released with conditions pending his sentencing on Nov. 19, 2024, on other charges. He failed to appear.

He was charged by RCMP with assault involving a female victim, breach of probation and possession of stolen prescription medication stemming from an incident on Oct. 22, 2024, at Perth-Andover. He pleaded guilty on all three counts. The crown withdrew another charge of breach of probation.

As part of his release, Moulton was ordered to stay away from the Village of Perth-Andover.

Sentencing set for Davenport

Timothy Grant Davenport, 46, of no fixed address, will appear in provincial court in custody on Jan. 17 at 1:30 p.m. for sentencing after changing his plea to guilty on six charges laid by RCMP.

Davenport was charged by RCMP with theft of a gun and ammunition, committing mischief by breaking a window, resisting arrest, possession of a prohibited weapon (a loaded sawed-off shotgun), reckless discharge of a firearm, pointing a firearm at another man, possession of a firearm without a licence, possession of ammunition while prohibited, and possession of a firearm while prohibited, in connection with an incident on Nov. 26, 2023, near Lakeville.

Three of the charges were withdrawn by the crown and one firearm charge was reduced to a lesser included offence.

Davenport appeared in court for a bail hearing on Nov. 29, 2023, and was remanded to jail. He also awaits sentencing for one other offence after pleading guilty to a fraud charge.

Verdict pending on sex charge

Matthew White, 42, of Upper Woodstock, appeared in provincial court on Jan. 7 for a verdict following his trial on a sex charge laid by RCMP. The decision was adjourned until Jan. 21 at 1:30 p.m.

White was charged with invitation to sexual touching involving a female minor in connection with an incident on June 3, 2023, in Bloomfield. He pleaded not guilty and denied the allegations during the trial.

Trafficking charge laid

Timothy Maurice Thibodeau, 42, of Glassville, appeared in provincial court on Jan. 7 for plea on three charges laid by RCMP. The matter was adjourned until Feb. 4 at 9:30 a.m. at the request of his defence counsel.

Thibodeau was charged with possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking, uttering threats on Sept. 4, 2023, at Hartland, and failing to appear in court on Oct. 24, 2024.  He appeared in court in custody on Nov. 4, 2024, and was released with conditions with an order to report to the police weekly.

Charged with shoplifting

Elizabeth Alice Davidson, 54, of Nackawic, appeared in provincial court on Jan. 7 to answer a theft charge. The matter was adjourned for plea until Jan. 21 at 9:30 a.m. to allow her more time to consult legal counsel.

RCMP charged Davidson with shoplifting at Nevers Pharmacy in Hartland on March 4, 2024.

Beechwood man to stand trial

Nathan Vallee, 24, of Beechwood, appeared for trial in provincial court on Jan. 6 after pleading not guilty to two charges laid by RCMP. The trial was adjourned until May 30 at 1:30 p.m.

Vallee was charged with assault involving a female victim and uttering threats concerning an incident on Dec. 28, 2023, in Beechwood.

Awaiting new trial date

Trevor Lee Crain, 49, of Killoween, will appear in provincial court on Jan. 14 at 9:30 a.m. to set new dates for his trial after pleading not guilty to multiple charges laid by RCMP.

Crain returned to court on Jan. 6 and all matters were adjourned until next week at the request of his defence counsel.

He was charged by RCMP with possession of a prohibited weapon (brass knuckles), resisting arrest, and breach of a release order in connection with an incident on July 1, 2024, at Killoween. He appeared in provincial court in custody by video for a bail hearing in August and was released with conditions.

He was also charged with breaking into a residence and committing sexual assault for another incident between May 1 and May 23, 2023, at Moose Mountain. He pleaded not guilty, and his trial date was set for July 25.

He also faces a charge of possessing stolen property for a separate incident on May 5, 2024. He pleaded not guilty and a trial date will be set at his next court appearance.

Crain was charged by RCMP with break and enter at a dwelling house and breaching an undertaking on June 15, 2023, at Moose Mountain, and committing an assault involving a female victim on June 11, 2023, at Killoween.

He appeared in provincial court in custody by video on Sept. 14, 2023, for a bail hearing and was released with conditions. He was ordered to follow a curfew and report to the police weekly as part of his release order but was brought back into custody.

Sentencing delayed on sex charge

A River de Chute man, facing jail on a sex charge, appeared in provincial court on Jan. 7 for a hearing about withdrawing his guilty plea.

Martin Sargefield, 30, was charged by RCMP with touching a female minor for a sexual purpose (indictable) between July 1, 2016, and July 22, 2022. He pleaded guilty and the evidence against him was read into the record by the crown. The court heard about a series of sexual acts involving Sargefield and the victim.

Judge Karen Lee was not available for the hearing on Tuesday, and the matter was adjourned until Jan. 28 at 1:30 p.m.

At that time, Sargefield must prove he was unaware of the allegations and charges; that he was unaware of the effect and consequences of his guilty plea; that his plea was not made voluntarily, and that his plea was equivocal in nature. 

Two other sex charges, which were to be withdrawn by the crown at sentencing, will remain before the court as a result of Sargefield’s request to take back his guilty plea.

Newbridge man returning for plea

Bernard Murray Turner, 38, of Newbridge, appeared in provincial court on Jan. 7 to answer charges laid by Woodstock Police. He returns to court for plea on Feb. 4 at 9:30 a.m.

He was charged by Woodstock Police with fraud under $5,000, uttering a forged document and possession of stolen property (a cheque) for an incident on Aug. 3, 2023, in Woodstock.

He also faces a charge of flight from police for an incident on Feb. 16, 2024. He appeared in provincial court in custody by video on Nov. 7, 2024, for a bail hearing and was released with conditions.

Bustard awaits sentencing

Mason Bustard, 18, of Woodstock, appeared for trial in provincial court in custody on Jan. 6 and changed his plea to guilty on several charges laid by Woodstock Police. His sentencing date was set for Jan. 20 at 1:30 p.m.

Bustard was denied bail on Aug. 8. He pleaded guilty on Monday to uttering threats against a female on July 24, 2024, in Woodstock, and guilty to breaking into a garage on Houlton Street, wearing a mask during the commission of an offence, and assault with a weapon (a knife) on July 16, 2024, in Woodstock. The crown withdrew two other charges.

Bustard was arrested after police received a report of an armed intruder who entered a yard on Houlton Street on the morning of July 16, 2024, and approached a woman while holding a knife. The man’s face was partially covered with a mask or scarf.

He instructed the woman to go inside her house. She immediately complied and locked the door behind her. The man then went inside her garage before eventually leaving the area.

Bustard agreed to sign a 12-month peace bond on other separate charges of entering a dwelling house and assaulting his mother on July 27, 2024, in Woodstock.

He is still scheduled for trial on charges of breach of a release order, possession of prohibited weapons (a sawed-off shotgun and brass knuckles), possession of a firearm without a licence, and possession of a loaded prohibited firearm and ammunition without a licence on July 28, 2024, in Woodstock. His trial date was set for Jan. 10 at 9:30 a.m.

Police made their arrest after spotting a suspect on Houlton Street around 12 p.m. on July 28. The individual fled on a bicycle into the woods and pursued by officers on foot. During the chase, the suspect discarded various items including a sawed-off shotgun, brass knuckles, and a mask which were retrieved later by a RCMP police dog.

On July 17, Bustard appeared in court appeared in court in custody and was released with conditions. He was scheduled to return to court for plea on Aug. 13 when he was rearrested.

Two charged with possession of child pornography

Todd Brian Forgrave, 47, of Belleville, and Stephen Warcop, 26, of Hartland, were each charged were each charged with possession of child pornography following an investigation led by the RCMP’s Internet Child Exploitation Unit.

Forgrave was charged following the execution of a search warrant at a residence in Belleville on Nov. 24, 2022. On Jan. 7, Defence Counsel Brent Dickinson requested the matter be adjourned until Jan. 16 at 1:30 p.m. when a change of plea is expected from the accused. Forgrave had a trial date set for February.

Warcop was charged following the execution of a search warrant at a residence in Hartland on Dec. 1, 2022. He pleaded not guilty on March 27, 2024. His three-day trial date was set for April 7, 2025, and April 10-11, 2025 at 9:30 a.m. Police seized several electronic devices during the investigation.

Murder charge in Nova Scotia

A Perth-Andover man is facing a murder charge in Nova Scotia while also awaiting plea on charges in Woodstock.

Patrick James Denny, 29, of Perth Andover, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on Jan. 7 to answer charges laid by RCMP. He told the court he was currently serving a federal prison sentence and was awaiting a court appearance by video for charges in Nova Scotia.

Denny returns to court in custody for plea in Woodstock on Jan. 28 at 9:30 a.m. on charges of reckless discharge of a firearm, being an occupant of a vehicle knowing it carried a firearm, possession of a firearm while prohibited, and possession of a firearm without a licence, concerning an incident on Nov. 15, 2022, in Hartland.

On Oct. 21, 2024, Denny was charged by Halifax RCMP with second degree murder and committing an indignity to human remains in connection with a homicide that occurred in East Preston, Nova Scotia, on Aug. 30, 2022.

The charges were laid in Dartmouth Provincial Court after police responded to a report of a suspicious van parked behind a strip mall in East Preston. Inside the vehicle, RCMP discovered the body of Barry Angus Studley of Middle Sackville. Denny and Studley were known to each other.

In May 2023, Denny was sentenced in Woodstock to a total of three and a half years in federal prison for his involvement in a police chase near Wotstak (Woodstock First Nation) that involved weapons and assaulting a police officer. Denny was on parole when he was arrested. He appeared in court in custody on Nov. 21, 2022, and waived his bail.

Charged with trafficking in cocaine

Jacob Richard Sewell, 34, of Wotstak (Woodstock First Nation), will appear in provincial court on Jan. 20, at 9:30 a.m. to enter a plea on drug trafficking charges laid by Woodstock Police.

Sewell was charged with two counts of trafficking in cocaine in connection with incidents on April 24 and May 2, 2024, in Woodstock. He appeared in court on Jan. 7 when the matter was adjourned for plea to the new date.

Arrested and released with conditions

Brandon Michael Francis, 29, of Neqotkuk (Tobique First Nation), appeared in provincial court in custody for a bail hearing on Jan. 6. He was released with conditions and returns to court for plea on Jan. 28 at 9:30 a.m.

Francis was arrested on the weekend and charged by RCMP with breach of probation. He was released from custody in December after spending several months in jail on other charges.

Carlingford man facing six charges

Patrick Campbell, 29, of Carlingford, will appear in provincial court on Feb. 4 at 9:30 a.m. to answer six charges laid by RCMP.

Campbell was charged with sexual assault involving a female victim, assault causing bodily harm, assault by choking, assault with a weapon (a knife), attempting to obstruct justice, and administering a noxious substance, in connection with incidents between 2020 and 2024 in Victoria County.

Campbell appeared in court on Jan. 7 when the matter was adjourned for plea to the new date at the request of his defence counsel.

Newburg man pleads not guilty

Jeffrey Richard Bull, 45, of Newburg, will appear for trial in provincial court on Aug. 7 and Aug. 29 at 9:30 a.m. after pleading not guilty to two charges laid by Woodstock Police.

Bull pleaded not guilty at a court appearance on Jan. 7. A pre-trial conference was also set for June 27 at 1:30 p.m.

Bull appeared in provincial court in custody by video on Sept. 9, 2024, for a bail hearing and was released with conditions. He was charged with aggravated assault and breach of probation concerning an incident on Sept. 8, 2024, at 2 a.m. when a man suffered a broken elbow after being struck by a bat on St. James Street in Woodstock. The alleged victim was a newcomer to the town for only three days.

Benton man to stand trial

William McKinney, 44, of Benton, will appear for trial in provincial court on Sept. 4 at 1:30 p.m. after pleading not guilty to two charges laid by RCMP.

McKinney was charged with impaired driving and flight from police concerning an incident on Sept. 10, 2024, at Benton. His defence counsel entered his not-guilty plea on Jan. 7.

Mother and son charged

Tina Noella Albert, 53, and Xander Gray of Upper Kintore will appear in provincial court on Jan. 28 at 9:30 a.m. for a plea on one charge laid by RCMP.

They were each charged with unlawful entry at a dwelling house concerning an incident on March 23, 2024, at Upper Kintore. They appeared in court on Jan. 7 when the matter was adjourned to the new date. Albert told the court she did not understand the charge since the residence identified was her house.

Albert also appeared in provincial court on Dec. 4, 2024, for a verdict following her trial on three other charges laid by RCMP.

Judge Sebastian Michaud found her guilty of uttering threats and guilty of assaulting a police officer, but not guilty of resisting arrest. Her sentencing date was set for March 12, 2025, at 1:30 p.m.

Albert was charged following an incident on Oct. 4, 2022, at the Ultramar gas station in Carlingford when she was involved in an altercation with a female police officer.

During the trial, the court heard Albert cursed at the officer, threatened to knock her teeth out, and pushed the door of a police cruiser against the officer’s foot. Video surveillance from the gas station was entered into evidence by the crown.

Albert told the court she intends to appeal her case once her sentencing is completed and later said she was pursuing private prosecution against the police officer.

Returning for plea

Shawn Sullivan, 38, of Plaster Rock, will appear in provincial court on Jan. 21 at 9:30 a.m. for plea on two charges laid by RCMP.

Sullivan was charged by RCMP with assaulting another man and breach of probation in connection with an incident on Nov. 23, 2024, at Plaster Rock and Gladwyn. He was ordered to have no contact with the complainant. Sullivan had a prior criminal record.

He appeared in provincial court in custody on Dec. 12, 2024, for a bail hearing and was released with conditions. Sullivan was scheduled to return for plea on Jan. 7 when the matter was adjourned to the new date at the request of his defence counsel.

Change of plea on four charges

Curtis Brent Hatheway, 43, of Woodstock, appeared for trial in provincial court in custody on Dec. 23 and changed his plea to guilty on several charges laid by Woodstock Police. His sentencing date was set for Jan. 20 at 9:30 a.m.

Hatheway appeared in custody by video on Nov. 21, 2024, for a bail hearing. He waived his bail and was remanded to jail. He was arrested on a warrant.

Hatheway pleaded guilty to two counts of breach of probation and two counts of breaching a peace bond between June 30 and July 8 and on Sept. 13, 2024, in Woodstock.

He is still scheduled for trial on Jan. 20 on other charges of breaching an undertaking, breach of probation, breach of a peace bond and criminal harassment between Sept. 14 and Sept. 16, 2024, in Woodstock. The charges relate to a no-contact order involving a female complainant. He has a prior criminal record.

He was also charged with breach of probation and breach of a peace bond for incidents between May 24 and Sept. 13, 2024, in Woodstock.

Trial date set on two charges

Braden Morgan, 27, of Woodstock, will appear for trial in provincial court on July 21 at 9:30 a.m. after pleading not guilty to two charges laid by Woodstock Police.

Morgan was charged with assault involving a female victim and uttering threats in connection with an incident on Oct. 30, 2024, in Woodstock. He entered his not-guilty plea on Jan. 7.

Plea adjourned on four charges

Robert Lewey of Neqotkuk (Tobique First Nation), appeared in provincial court on Jan. 7 to answer four charges laid by RCMP. The matter was adjourned for plea until Jan. 28 at 9:30 a.m.

Lewey was charged with theft of a vehicle, impaired driving, dangerous driving and mischief causing property damage in connection with an incident on Aug. 25, 2024, at Neqotkuk. 

At an earlier appearance, the court heard Lewey was scheduled to enter a rehab facility in his community and wanted to delay his plea until after he completed his treatment program.

Charges laid following accident

Rylan McLeod, 21, of Woodstock, will appear in provincial court on Jan. 28 at 9:30 a.m. for plea on seven charges laid by RCMP.

McLeod was charged with three counts of impaired driving causing bodily harm, three counts of dangerous driving causing bodily harm, and obstructing police in relation to an accident on Jan. 5 at Bulls Creek. He appeared in court on Jan. 7 when the matter was adjourned to the new date at the request of his defence counsel.

Awaiting trial date

Catherine Polchies, 46, of Wotstak (Woodstock First Nation), appeared in provincial court on Jan. 7 and pleaded not guilty to a charge of breaching her curfew. She returns to court on Jan. 24 at 9:30 a.m. to set a trial date.

Polchies was charged by RCMP in connection with an incident on March 7, 2024, at Wotstak. She also appeared in provincial court in February and pleaded not guilty to other multiple charges. Trial dates were set for Jan. 24, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. and Feb. 3, 2025, at 1:30 p.m.

Polchies appeared in provincial court in custody by video on Feb. 7, 2024, and was released with conditions after spending a few days in jail. She was arrested on warrant after she failed to appear in court for plea on Jan. 2, 2024. She also faces charges of breaching a release order and possession of stolen property on Feb. 1, 2024, and several firearm offences for an incident on Nov. 11, 2023, in Woodstock.

Polchies was also charged under the Fish and Wildlife Act with discharging a firearm too close to a dwelling house and not wearing hunter orange following an incident on Sept. 27, 2022, at Lower Woodstock. She pleaded not guilty at her court appearance on Feb. 27, 2024.

Charged in police stand-off

Travis Terrance McDougall, 32, of Woodstock, will appear for trial in provincial court on Sept. 25 at 1:30 p.m. after pleading not guilty to charges laid by Woodstock Police.

Woodstock Police charged him with two counts of uttering threats and obstructing police in connection with a stand-off on Nov. 2, 2024, when an individual barricaded himself inside a residence in Woodstock.

McDougall appeared in provincial court in custody by video on Nov. 7, 2024, for a bail hearing and was released with conditions, including wearing an electronic monitoring device attached to his ankle. He entered his not-guilty plea at a court appearance on Jan. 7.

Moved to alternative measures

Rachel Sockabasin, 40, of Neqotkuk (Tobique First Nation), appeared in provincial court on Jan. 7 for monitoring about her trial.

Sockabasin was charged by RCMP with breach of an undertaking, breach of probation and three counts of theft concerning incidents on Feb. 12, Aug. 11, 2023, and Dec. 22, 2023, at the Ultramar in Carlingford. She pleaded not guilty and her trial was scheduled for Jan. 17 at 9:30 a.m.

The matter was moved to the alternative measures program with the consent of the crown and as a result the trial will not proceed. Sockabasin must complete the program by April 8 in order to have the charges withdrawn.

Adjourned to new date

Brian Keith Reynolds, 45, of Wotstak (Woodstock First Nation), appeared in provincial court on Jan. 7 to answer several charges laid by RCMP. The matter was adjourned until Jan. 21 at 9:30 a.m. to allow him time to consult legal counsel.

RCMP charged him with uttering threats against a female victim, breach of probation, and driving while suspended, stemming from an incident on Oct. 8, 2023, in Bloomfield. He pleaded not guilty and returns to court on Jan. 21 to set a trial date.

Reynolds was also charged with two counts of resisting arrest on Nov. 1, 2023, and Nov. 27, 2023, at Wotstak. He also faces two new charges of assault and assault with a weapon concerning another incident on Aug. 4, 2024, at Wotstak. He returns for plea on those charges on Jan. 21.

Reynolds appeared in provincial court in custody in July 2-24 and was released with conditions, including wearing an electronic monitoring device attached to his ankle.

Neqotkuk woman charged

Alesha Rossi, 33, of Neqotkuk (Tobique First Nation) will appear in provincial court on Jan.28 at 9:30 a.m. for plea on three charges laid by RCMP.

Rossi was charged with assault involving a male victim, assault with a weapon (a chair), and uttering threats concerning an incident on Oct. 12, 2024, at Neqotkuk.

She appeared in court on Jan. 7 when the matter was adjourned to the new date at the request of her defence counsel. Rossi was released on an undertaking until her next court appearance.

Centreville woman charged

Amber Dawn Shaw, 35, of Centreville, will appear in provincial court on Jan. 21, at 9:30 a.m. to answer three charges laid by RCMP.

Shaw was charged with obstructing police, fraudulent impersonation and breach of probation following an incident on June 22, 2024, in Upper Woodstock. She appeared in court on Jan. 7 when the matter was adjourned at the request of her defence counsel.

Awaiting trial on two charges

Jordan Ronald Broad, 29, of Florenceville-Bristol, appeared in provincial court on Jan. 7 and pleaded not guilty to charges laid by RCMP. His trial date was set for Nov. 14 at 1:30 p.m.

Broad appeared in provincial court in custody by video for a bail hearing on Nov. 12, 2024, and was released with conditions, including wearing an electronic monitoring device attached to his ankle.

RCMP charged him with breach of probation and breach of an undertaking. He was ordered to have no firearms in his possession as part of his release and must not have any contact with the female complainant.

Plea pending on arson charge

Benjamin Bolster, 20, of Perth-Andover, appeared in provincial court on Jan. 7 to answer an arson charge. The matter was adjourned for plea until Feb. 18 at 9:30 a.m. at the request of his defence counsel.

Bolster appeared in provincial court in custody by video on Nov. 12, 2024, for a bail hearing and was released with conditions. RCMP charged him in connection with a fire in Perth-Andover. He was arrested on a warrant for failing to appear in court.

Neqotkuk man to stand trial

Jason Moulton of Neqotkuk (Tobique First Nation) will appear for trial in provincial court on Jan.8-9, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. after pleading not guilty to two charges laid by RCMP.

Moulton was charged with sexual assault and assault by choking in relation to an incident on Oct. 22, 2023, at Neqotkuk.

His defence counsel entered a not-guilty plea on his behalf at a court appearance on Dec. 3, 2024. The court heard DNA evidence may be presented as part of the crown’s case at trial. The trial date was booked on Jan. 7 via teleconference with his lawyer.

Agreed to peace bond

Hunter Lee-Hamilton, 22, of Lower Brighton, appeared in provincial court on Jan. 7 to answer a threat charge.

Lee-Hamilton was charged by RCMP with uttering threats against another man in connection with an incident on April 10, 2024, at Mainstream. He agreed to sign a 12-month peace bond and as a result the charge will be withdrawn.

He will also appear for trial in provincial court on July 11, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. after pleading not guilty to two other charges laid by Woodstock Police.

Lee-Hamilton was charged with committing mischief causing property damage to a vehicle and breach of probation concerning an incident on March 3, 2024, in Woodstock. He entered his not-guilty plea at a court appearance on Sept. 24, 2024.

Greenfield man to stand trial

Terrance Wright, 60, of Greenfield, will appear for trial in provincial court on Nov. 19 at 9:30 a.m. after pleading not guilty to one charge laid by Woodstock Police.

Wright was charged with breaching the conditions of his release by violating a no-contact order following an incident on June 20, 2024, in Woodstock. His defence counsel entered a not-guilty plea on his behalf on Jan. 7.

Two charges in driving incident

Olivia Annette Young, 32, of Woodstock, appeared in provincial court in custody on Jan. 7 to answer two charges laid by Woodstock Police. The matter was adjourned for plea until Feb. 4 at 9:30 a.m.

Young was charged with flight from police and dangerous driving concerning an incident on Sept. 13, 2024, in Woodstock. On Jan. 7, the court heard she was arrested on a warrant concerning other matters in Fredericton.

Facing assault charge

Jodi Bull, 60, of Bulls Creek, will appear in provincial court on Feb. 4 at 9:30 a.m. for plea on an assault charge.

RCMP charged bull with assaulting another man in connection with an incident on June 2 at Bulls Creek. He appeared in court on Jan. 7 when the matter was adjourned to the new date at the request of his defence counsel.

Fredericton man has three charges

Ryan Patrick Brown, 33, of Fredericton, will appear in provincial court on Feb. 4 at 9:30 a.m. for plea on three charges laid by Woodstock Police.

Brown was charged with assault involving a female victim, assault by choking and mischief by interfering with property (a phone) stemming from an incident on Nov. 17 in Woodstock. He appeared in court on Jan. 7 when the matter was adjourned to the new date at the request of his defence counsel.

Trial date in November

Marc Morin, 24, of Aroostook, will appear for trial in provincial court on Nov. 17 at 9:30 a.m. after pleading not guilty to charges laid by RCMP.

He appeared in court in custody on Dec. 4, 2024, and was released with conditions after being arrested for breaching his curfew. His trial date was booked at a court appearance on Jan. 7.

Morin pleaded not guilty to possessing  stolen snowmobile and obstructing a police officer in connection with an incident on March 6, 2023, in Carlingford. 

He was also charged with breaching a release order by failing to appear for trial on July 15, 2024. Morin appeared in provincial court in custody by video on Oct. 3, 2024, for a bail hearing and was released with conditions. He was arrested on a warrant on Oct. 1, 2024, for failing to appear in court.

Two charged with fraud

Two individuals from Neqotkuk (Tobique First Nation) appeared in provincial court on Jan. 7 to answer fraud charges.

John Perley and Tara Sappier were each charged by RCMP with uttering forged documents (cheques) and fraud over $5,000 in connection with incidents between Sept. 12 and Oct. 6, 2022, at Neqotkuk. They both return to court for plea on Feb. 4 at 9:30 a.m.

The charges are related to a series of cheques stolen from the band office allegedly cashed by several individuals in the community. Other charges have also been laid.

Returning for plea on trafficking charges

Justin Ryan Shea, 36, of Plymouth Road, appeared in provincial court on Jan. 7 to answer two drug trafficking charges. The matter was adjourned for plea until Feb. 4 at 9:30 a.m. at the request of his defence counsel.

Shea was charged by Woodstock Police with trafficking in methamphetamine and possession of methamphetamine for the purpose of trafficking in connection with incidents in Woodstock on June 30 and May 2, 2024.

Shea appeared in provincial court in custody by video on Nov. 7, 2024, for a bail hearing and was released with conditions. He was charged by Woodstock Police with break, enter and theft at a dwelling house on Creighton Street on Sept. 26, 2024, and an additional charge of breaching an undertaking (curfew).

Shea was also charged with mischief causing property damage and break, enter and theft at the East Coast Truck Wash for an incident on March 17, 2024, in Lower Woodstock.

In federal prison awaiting plea

Ryan Eccleston, 32, of Plaster Rock, appeared in provincial court in custody by video from federal prison on Jan. 7 to answer two charges laid by RCMP. He returns to court for plea on Feb. 4 at 9:30 a.m.

Eccleston was charged with being at large on a release order, flight from police, dangerous driving and possession of methamphetamine for the purpose of trafficking on March 17, 2024, in Perth-Andover.

The crown withdrew the drug trafficking charge at his court appearance on Jan. 7.

Eccleston was sentenced in 2021 to four years in federal penitentiary after pleading guilty to 11 charges laid by RCMP.  He was paroled and then returned to prison on the new charges. He told the court his prison sentence from 2021 expires in early January.

Judge Nicole Angers warned Eccleston he must appear in court in Woodstock on Feb. 4 after his release.

Neqotkuk woman has two charges

Amy Moulton of Neqotkuk (Tobique First Nation) will appear in provincial court on Feb. 11 at 9:30 a.m. to answer two charges laid by RCMP.

Moulton was charged with impaired driving and failing to stop at the scene of an accident following an incident on Sept. 28, 2024, at Neqotkuk. She made her first court appearance on Jan. 7 when the matter was adjourned to the new date.

Bedell man returning for plea

Andrew Richardson, 37, of Bedell, will appear in provincial court on Jan. 28 at 9:30 a.m. to answer one charge laid by Woodstock Police.

Richardson was charged with impaired driving in connection with an incident on March 3, 2024, in Woodstock. He made his first court appearance on Jan. 7 when the matter was adjourned to the new date.

Charged with assault

Marie Ogden, 43, of Woodstock, will appear in provincial court on Feb. 18 at 9:30 a.m. to answer an assault charge.

Woodstock Police charged Ogden with assaulting another woman following an incident on Aug. 24, 2024, in Woodstock. She made her first court appearance on Jan. 7 when the matter was adjourned to the new date.

Holmesville woman awaiting trial

Renee Hardy, 47, of Holmesville, will appear for trial in provincial court on July 21 at 9:30 a.m. after pleading not guilty to two charges laid by RCMP.

Hardy was charged with impaired driving and resisting arrest, stemming from an incident on Oct. 10, 2024, at Perth-Andover. She entered her not-guilty plea at a court appearance on Jan. 7.

Breathalyzer refusal

Bianca Laqua, 35, of Woodstock, will appear in provincial court on Feb. 4 at 9:30 a.m. for plea on one charge laid by Woodstock Police.

Laqua was charged with refusing a breathalyzer in connection with an incident on Sept. 21, 2024, in Woodstock. She made her first court appearance on Jan. 7.

Trial date set

Richard Evan Stockford, 30, of Waterville, will appear for trial in provincial court on Sept. 24 at 9:30 a.m. after pleading not guilty to a shoplifting charge.

Stockford was charged with theft of alcohol from a grocery store in Hartland. He entered his not-guilty plea at a court appearance on Jan. 7.

Stockford told the court he was offered the alternative measures program on another separate charge (uttering threats), but had been in the hospital for mental health for several weeks.

The post Woodstock Provincial Court: Wotstak man sentenced to 150 days first appeared on River Valley Sun.

Hornibrook champions sustainable farming for Madagascar’s revival

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Lennoxville resident Chris Hornibrook is spearheading a mission to transform agriculture in Madagascar, one of the world’s most food-insecure nations. Through the “Madagascar Soul & Soil Revival” project, Hornibrook, in partnership with Christian-based organizations ImpactHope and Foundations for Farming International (FfF), aims to train one million small-scale farmers by 2028, combating hunger and fostering self-sufficiency.

“I met the leaders of Madagascar’s food security program in South Africa in early 2024,” Hornibrook recounted. “They’ve been tasked by the president to feed the nation in four years. Partnering with FfF was a natural fit.”

A local connection with global impact

Hornibrook’s journey into sustainable farming began in 2010, following a sabbatical in Africa where he witnessed FfF’s innovative agricultural practices firsthand. Upon returning to Canada, his family initiated a local garden project, which eventually grew into a broader vision. What started with two refugee students at Bishop’s University planting a garden now thrives as a community initiative, managed by a local women’s centre and supported by volunteers.

“None of us would be here without those six inches of topsoil,” he said. “The soil is life, and the soul—our overall well-being—is deeply connected to it. It’s about creating spaces where people can get their hands dirty, have meaningful conversations, and feel healthier.”

Hornibrook’s passion for soil health is evident in his advocacy for natural farming methods. “We avoid pesticides and fertilizers, relying on compost and zero tillage,” he explained. “This helps keep the soil alive and fertile, producing amazing food.”

Training farmers to transform communities

The “Madagascar Soul & Soil Revival” project focuses on training 100 farmers who will each teach others, creating a multiplier effect that could transform the nation’s agricultural landscape. Hornibrook emphasized the critical role of local trainers in ensuring the project’s success. “We’re raising $250,000 over four years to support trainers handpicked for their excellence. These trainers deliver the knowledge and inspire others to do the same.”

The training includes foundational agricultural techniques, such as proper seed management, spacing, and soil preservation. Hornibrook highlighted the challenges faced by Madagascar’s farmers. “In the past, seeds weren’t planted on time or at the right depth. Weed management was poor, and soil wasn’t protected properly,” he said. “Foundations for Farming has been teaching farmers for 40 years to address these gaps.”

Hornibrook is particularly inspired by the initiative’s emphasis on sustainability and empowerment. “The trainers don’t just teach; they build relationships with the farmers. It’s about creating long-term resilience and independence.”

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L’article Soil and soul est apparu en premier sur Sherbrooke Record.

Highlights from the Hatley Township council meeting

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Hatley Township council met on Jan. 7 at the municipality’s town hall, with Mayor Vincent Fontaine presiding over the session. Five residents attended, bringing questions and concerns about infrastructure, environmental policies, and budget management. The meeting showcased the township’s commitment to balancing rural preservation with modern development.

Addressing rural road safety

Concerns over winter road maintenance were brought forward during the question period. Residents highlighted issues with the use of salt on unpaved roads, which can negatively impact nearby watercourses. Council members clarified that they prioritize sand over salt on dirt roads to prevent environmental damage. “On our gravel roads, we use a rear-mounted grader to create grooves,” explained a council member. “This helps the sand stay in place and enhances safety, although it’s not perfect.” They acknowledged the challenges of high winds displacing sand but affirmed their commitment to reasonable and environmentally sensitive practices.

Evolving recycling policies

The township is preparing for new recycling regulations under Recyc-Quebec’s jurisdiction. While the new rules officially began on Jan. 1, Hatley’s existing contract with its recycling provider will delay implementation until next year. “Even now, you can place new recyclable materials in your bin,” the council clarified, adding that the regional sorting centre will handle them. The township also highlighted its ongoing partnership with a local glass recycling program, which separates glass by colour for efficient processing.

Urban planning updates

During the question period, residents inquired about the next steps for Hatley’s urban planning initiatives. The council confirmed the township is undergoing a comprehensive review of its zoning regulations—the first in over two decades. “This is a significant undertaking,” one member stated. “It reflects the evolution of rural living and ensures that our regulations remain relevant.” Public consultations have been integral to this process, providing valuable input on local priorities and challenges.

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L’article Balancing progress and preservation est apparu en premier sur Sherbrooke Record.

The Grays Bay Road and Port project would see the construction of a 230-kilometre all-weather road that stretches from ice roads in Yellowknife all the way to the Arctic ocean. 

Canadian values are at stake in the next election.

Roughly 43% of Canadians are prepared to vote Conservative in the next election. Not because CPC leader Pierre Poilievre is popular — he’s not — or because the party has a good platform — they don’t — but because of rage-bait to vote against Justin Trudeau, who’s no longer running for prime minister.

It’s worth noting that roughly 1 in 3 Canadians will vote Conservative no matter what their platform entails or who the party leader is. Case in point: Even Andrew Scheer still managed to get 34% of the vote. 

At its core, however, Canada is a progressive country.

The vast majority of Canadians support a woman’s right to choose, support bans on handguns and assault rifles and believe climate change exists. Despite what Poilievre and Jordan Peterson might think, most Canadians also acknowledge the existence of systemic racism and agree that increasing trans acceptance is a sign of social progress.

As prime minister, would Poilievre lead with policies that appeal to the majority, or solely the minority of Canadians who end up voting for him?

Peace, equality and compassion are Canadian values — and I see none of that in Pierre Poilievre.

For our latest in news, please visit the News section.

The post Canadian values are at stake in the next election appeared first on Cult MTL.

An NDP MP says the Liberal government is breaking promises and pitting First Nations against each other by refusing to renew national negotiations on child and family services reform, after chiefs rejected Ottawa’s $47.8-billion settlement offer last fall.

Some of the island's small communities were hit hard, and are struggling with the cleanup.