A New Brunswick Liberal MP who called for Justin Trudeau’s resignation says the party can now focus on rebuilding.

Wayne Long, who represents the riding of Saint John-Rothesay, said it is certainly not a day of celebration.

“It’s certainly a day of reflection, a little bit of sadness. I think it’s sad that we had to get to this point,” Long told our newsroom on Monday following news of Trudeau’s resignation.

“But I do know this. We are much more apt to be competitive in the next election without Justin Trudeau than with him.”

RELATED: Trudeau to step down, Parliament prorogued until March 24

Long, who himself does not plan to reoffer in the next federal election, has been outspoken about the prime minister’s leadership in recent months.

He called for Trudeau’s resignation back in the summer after the Liberals lost the riding of Toronto-St. Paul’s in a byelection.

Long renewed those calls in December after the resignation of two high-profile cabinet ministers, including Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland.

“The dislike of the prime minister had become personal and people really weren’t listening to our policies and our message anymore,” said the MP.

“So this time, this prorogation will allow us to have an open, transparent, robust leadership contest with an exchange of viewpoints and policies and a plan forward.”

Long said he is positive the party can right the ship and get a new leader in place before parliament resumes in late March.

A non-confidence motion is expected to be introduced once MPs return to Ottawa which, if passed, would trigger an early election.

“Is 70 days tight? Yes. But is it enough time to introduce new leaders with new visions, you know, a new direction for the country and have them introduced to Canadians? Absolutely,” said Long.

The Heather Curling Club is hosting the 2025 New Brunswick Provincial Women’s Curling Championship next week.

Roger McNabb, and the many volunteers, have been preparing for the 5-day tournament since they received the invitation in March.

“In the last couple of weeks, we’ve been at quite a hectic pace here getting everything ready,” he said in an interview. “But of course, our 100-plus years here at the Heather Curling Club equips us quite well to put on these events. We think we’ll have everything in place so the competitors can focus on one thing only, and that’s their curling game.”

This tournament is in the format of a TKO – which means on Wednesday teams will practice and other Thursday teams will begin the competition. The opening ceremonies are at 5 p.m. on Wednesday.

Each team will play two shifts a day until Saturday, McNabb explained.

“Certainly, if required, they’ll play two more shifts on Sunday in the finals,” he said.

The tournament comes at time when St. Andrews is in its shoulder season for tourism, meaning this will draw people into the community.

“It is certainly exciting to have a provincial tournament like this coming to St. Andrews this time of year when things are pretty slow,” he said. “We hope that the town will appreciate having this event.”

McNabb said the feedback from competitors is usually very positive.

“We are known for our hospitality and we have the greatest ice here east of Montreal,” he said, laughing.

The Heather Curling Club has hosted several large tournaments in the past and has a significant history for 102 years.

Seven teams are expected to take part in the tournament including the defending champions, captained by Melissa Adams, two teams from the Capital Winter Club, three teams from Curl Moncton, and one from the Gage Curling Club.

Mayor, MLA, MP present medals to three dedicated residents in front of packed chambers of friends and family

More than 50 people squeezed into Nackawic-Millville council chambers on Monday, Jan 6, to support a trio of volunteers recognized for their commitment to their community, province, and country. 

Mayor Tim Fox and the council dedicated the entire agenda to the presentation of King Charles Coronation Medals to John Maunder, Judy Ingraham and Sharon Connors. 

Tobique-Mactaquac MP Richard Bragdon and Carleton-York MLA Richard Ames helped Mayor Fox present the medals. 

Bragdon called the presentation a special moment. 

“The highlight of being a Member of Parliament is being able to shine the spotlight on some key people who make a significant impact, not just here locally but throughout the region and sometimes across the province and Canada,” he said. 

Bragdon described the three recipients as “very worthy” of the medal recognizing the coronation of King Charles, which is presented to outstanding citizens who made an impact on their communities.

He explained that in his search for worthy recipients, he contacted the community, including the local councils, which are most aware of certain people’s contributions. 

Mayor Fox introduced the evening’s first recipient, John Maunder. 

Fox thanked Bragdon for providing the council with a chance to participate in picking a recipient. 

“We gave councilors homework and said come back and bring some names forward,” he explained.  

During a closed meeting, he said, the council reached a consensus to give the award to Maunder. 

“In the process of doing that, I learned a lot of things about John that I didn’t know,” Fox added.

He listed Maunder’s numerous community contributions, including his work as a minor hockey coach and executive and his many years as a member of the Mactaquac Country Chamber of Commerce, including one year as its Corporate Citizen of the Year. 

He noted Maunder’s long-time support of Portage Atlantic, a drug addiction rehabilitation centre. Maunder currently sits on the non-profit’s national board of governors. 

Fox explained that Maunder is best known as an entertainer who plays and sings regularly throughout the region. 

He said Maunder supports Southampton Legion, the Nackawic Lions and dozens of other organizations. 

“This is a gentleman that serves the community and wants to serve the community,” said Fox. 

In accepting the medal, Maunder quoted the late, great Jack Benny’s accepting of a comedy award. 

“I really don’t think I deserve this award, but then again I’ve got arthritis and I don’t think I deserve that either,” Maunder said. 

He said communities like Nackawic-Millville benefit from the actions of volunteers. 

“There is a saying that in the case of fire the deer and the lion run together, so in a community we may all have our differences sometimes, but we are an extended family and when something takes place that’s when you see everyone pull together.”

Bragdon presented the medal to Ingraham, explaining that many in the area know her from her many years at the Nackawic mill. 

The MP cited her dedication to her Dumfries community and the entire region.

“Judy is the type of person where you don’t have to worry,” he said.  “When she takes on a project, that project is going to get done and it’s going to get done with excellence.” 

Bragdon described Ingraham’s volunteer efforts on behalf of St. Clement’s Anglican Church, including with the 4-H, livestock shows, the Mactaquac County Chamber, sports, and other community events. 

Citing an old saying that you don’t remember people for what they said but for how they make you feel, Bragdon said, “Judy makes you feel good,” 

Ingraham described receiving the medal as a surprise and an honour, noting her shock when Bragdon called to tell her.

“He floored me. It was good I was sitting down.” 

In introducing Connor, Bragdon explained he grew up knowing the Hawkins Corner resident, her family, their farm, and their contributions to the community. 

“There’s nothing in Hawkins Corner or Millville and now Nackawic-Millville that Sharon doesn’t have her finger on the pulse of what’s going on,” he said. 

She served and volunteered for decades with Ladies Auxilliares, the Hawkins Corner Cemetery Committee, and the Millville and Nackawic Baptist Churches. 

He said she remains active with Meals on Wheels, noting she delivers meals to people younger than her. 

“She is so genuinely caring and concerned for those who are disadvantaged,” Bragdon said, noting she commonly brings things of which she feels the MP should be aware to his office’s attention.

Connor thanked Bragdon and the mayor and council for hosting the presentation.  

“People who do things to better society don’t do it for the awards, but it is lovely to be recognized,” she said. “Thank you.” 

Ames noted the packed council chambers and the positive atmosphere. 

“It’s good to see friends, family and neighbours altogether,” he said. 

The post Nackawic-Millville devotes council meeting to King Charles Coronation Medal recipients first appeared on River Valley Sun.

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After postponing the proceeding for three months, a homeless man accused of trashing the downtown Fredericton library finally went through a bail hearing, only to be denied conditional release.

Kelly Gordon Kleim, 30, of no fixed address, has been in custody since early October on Sept. 30 charges of breaking into the Fredericton Public Library on Carleton Street, stealing computer tablets there and causing thousands of dollars in property damage.

He’s also accused of breaking into Booster Juice on Prospect Street and causing property damage there Sept. 9, uttering threats to Judith Maillet and Hayden Gullison on Sept. 19 , and failing to attend court Oct. 1.

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A St. Martins native is hunkering down with her family in Los Angeles as fires in the region continue to threaten her home.

The Francophone South School District sees no end in sight for a bus shortage that's causing route delays and cancellations.

Medical witnesses told a jury in Saint John that Alexander Bishop's wound was not survivable. 

New Brunswickers who buy illicit cannabis products may be getting more, and less, than they bargained for.

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A Fredericton man will stand trial this summer after denying a variety of charges Thursday, including counts of assaulting a woman with bear spray and threatening to kill an RCMP dog.

Joseph Emile Breau, 28, of Claudie Road, appeared in Fredericton provincial court by telephone from the Saint John Regional Correctional Centre on Thursday to answer several charges.

He’s accused of assaulting Madison Hoveys with a weapon (bear mace) and breaching probation Sept. 17 in Fredericton; and uttering a threat to RCMP Sgt. Mike Litalien to kill police services dog Klue, possessing a knife for a purpose dangerous to the public peace and violating his probation again Oct. 13, in Fredericton as well.

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30-year-old facing charges after fleeing police in Kirkland

A 30-year-old man from Jacksonville has been charged following traffic-related offences in Kirkland.

On Jan. 4, 2025, at approximately 5:20 p.m., members of the Western Valley Region RCMP attempted to stop a vehicle travelling on Highway 540 in Kirkland. As police approached a vehicle with their emergency equipment activated, the driver fled from police at a high rate of speed.

A short time later, police found the vehicle in a ditch. The driver, who was the sole occupant, was arrested without incident.

He was released pending a future court appearance.

On Jan. 6, 30-year-old Samuel Crewe appeared in Woodstock Provincial Court and was charged with flight from police, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, and operating a motor vehicle while prohibited.

He was released on conditions and is scheduled to reappear in Woodstock Provincial Court on Feb. 4, 2025.

The investigation is ongoing.

The post Jacksonville man charged with traffic offences first appeared on River Valley Sun.

New Brunswick Liquor stores will remain closed until further notice, and Cannabis N.B. locations are accepting cash only for purchases, following a potential security threat.

A Moncton housing organization plans to create 30 affordable units in a former office building on St. George Boulevard.

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Nine members of the Welamukotuk (Oromocto) First Nation, including its chief, want a jury to decide their cases on an alleged attack on an unwanted person in their community last spring.

All nine defendants were back in Fredericton provincial court Thursday on April 29 charges alleging a violent confrontation at Welamukotuk First Nation.

Welamukotuk Chief Shelley Marie Sabattis, 56; her son and band councillor Allan J.W. Sabattis-Atwin, 36; his husband, Shawn Sabattis-Atwin, 43; the chief’s daughter, Desirae Moon Stevens, 24, and another son, Drae Stevens, 20; the chief’s brothers, Nikia William Sabattis, 40, and Steven Robert Sabattis, 52; the chief’s niece’s partner, Aubrey Landry, 29; and Joel Berrios Jr., 36, are all charged in the case, and all nine were present in court Thursday.

They’re all accused of two counts of break, enter and assault on Sonya Atwin and Anthony Shane O’Blenis.

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A Fredericton woman who stole thousands of dollars’ worth of merchandise from the jewelry store where she was working in 2023 admitted to her crimes Wednesday.

Jennifer Marie Sharpe, 44, of Burpee Street, attended Fredericton provincial court Thursday with defence lawyer Edward Derrah to answer to two indictable charges.

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A Zealand man, through counsel, has denied an indictable charge alleging a sexual offence in late 2022.

Patrick Sewell, 33, of Upper Stoneridge Road, was charged last year with an indictable count of sexual assault, alleging a Dec. 17, 2022, offence in Fredericton.

There’s a court-ordered publication ban in effect protecting the identity of the complainant.

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A Central Waterville man will return to court in April for sentencing after admitting this week to a long list of crimes, most of which he committed while at the wheel of a car.

Jaden Joseph Stanley Dickison, 20, of Route 595, appeared in Fredericton provincial court with his defence counsel, Angèle Normand, on Tuesday to answer to numerous criminal charges.

Normand said her client was pleading guilty to all counts.

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The rush of people moving to New Brunswick from other provinces has slowed down to a trickle, with international immigration continuing to lead as a source of population growth.

Canadian manufacturers are left worrying as the inauguration of U.S. president-elect Donald Trump looms in less than two weeks.

Opponents question the new minister’s quick approval for 34 turbines through a densely forested area near Juniper

The new Liberal government’s quick approval of J.D. Irving, Limited’s large wind farm project in northern Carleton County doesn’t sit well with the project’s opponents. 

A document dated Nov. 5, 2024, approved JDI to begin Phase 1 of the Brighton Mountain Wind Farm project, which would see the erection of as many as 34 turbines near Juniper. Phase 2, which still requires provincial approval, could add an additional 24 turbines between Juniper and Cloverdale. 

Jean Arnold, a long-time resident of Knowlesville, a rural community near the planned wind farm site, said New Brunswick Environment and Climate Change Minister Gilles LaPage ignored her and her neighbours’ concerns. 

“This EIA (Environmental Impact Assessment) was accepted by the new Liberal Minister of Environment within a couple of days of his taking up office,” said Arnold. 

She said the project had strong pushback from opponents, who raised numerous controversies and expressed heightened concern about the project’s impact on the old-growth forest and wildlife.  

“How could the new minister have had time to review, learn, understand and fully appraise and analyze what he was signing? Clearly he could not,” said Arnold. 

The minister’s acceptance of the EIA report for Phase 1 of the JDI project permits the company to begin erecting up to 34 turbines immediately, with the requirement that the project start within five years. 

The project’s first phase, at an estimated cost of $550 million, will deliver a capacity of up to 200 megawatts of power. 

JDI officials previously announced plans to begin the project in 2025 if approved. The second phase of 24 turbines and a capacity of 150 megawatts still requires approval. 

JDI confirmed it plans to move forward with the project as soon as possible. 

“Now that the project has been approved, we are looking forward to working with stakeholders and the local community to make the project a reality and, in doing so, help New Brunswick achieve its long-term renewable energy goals,” JDI spokesperson Anne McInerney told the CBC late last year. 

Arnold and other opponents question how the local community will benefit from the mega energy project. 

“There are zero community benefits for the two municipalities — Hartland and Carleton North — that are the jurisdictional authorities in the planned area of operation,” she said. “Who are the benefits for?”

While JDI plans to sell the power to NB Power, the company and the New Brunswick utility must complete a purchasing agreement. 

Arnold noted the lack of a purchasing agreement and other unanswered questions in response to the EIA’s approval and acceptance by the minister. 

“There is currently no power agreement with NB Power, no storage facility,” she said. “Where will the generated power go? To whom?

While long-time supporters of renewable energy, Arnold said she and other residents of the area stress that the development of renewable energy doesn’t benefit the public if it comes with significant environmental damage. 

Arnold said the company, the department, and the minister ignored or dismissed the many environmental concerns raised during the EIA public process, which she deemed a “farce.” 

Those concerns included long-term impacts on wildlife, old-growth forests, wetlands and the critical watershed in the area. 

“I can say that our concerns have been brushed off, responses childish and unprofessional,” said Arnold. “Such as when asking about the effects on bird migration, we have been told that bird mortality tests can be done once the turbine site is operational!”

Guidelines accompanying the EIA approval included provisions to halt construction upon the discovery of nesting migratory birds and specific guidelines for construction near wetlands. 

The approval guidelines also require JDI to conduct post-construction bird and bat studies to submit to the federal and provincial governments,

Arnold also complained the EIA process failed to properly notify area residents and did not include any direct communications with First Nations. While JDI notes the land involved in the project is industrial freehold, the guidelines call for a construction halt upon discovering any archeological remains. 

The EIA process’s only public hearing occurred on Aug. 8, 2024, in Juniper. Arnold and dozens of other project opponents made their voices heard to several JDI representatives, including JDI Vice President of Energy Dion Handrahan, Senior Project Manager Calvin Rice, Director of Environmental Affairs Renee Morais, and Director of Sustainability and Indigenous Affairs Andrew Willett.

Ian Walker of Hatch Consultants, who provided the company with data and expertise, joined the JDI officials in defending the wind farm project. 

The post Province approves large Irving wind farm project in northern Carleton County first appeared on River Valley Sun.

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.

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A Hampton man accused of being busted in Fredericton last summer with a truck belonging to the City of Saint John was a no-show in court this week, marking his second such absence.

Jean-Paul Dezainde, 36, of Acadia Crescent in Hampton, was scheduled to appear in Fredericton provincial court Tuesday on a June 29 count of possessing a stolen 2010 Ford F150 belonging to the City of Saint John in Fredericton and a Nov. 12 count of failing to attend court.

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Meredith Briden and his Grade 5 students at Fredericton’s Garden Creek Elementary School have just finished printing a replica Fender guitar, almost entirely out of PLA plastic. Briden says it's a good idea to get students to be excited about learning.

Local fire departments respond to accident

A 48-year-old man from Brampton, Ontario, has died following a single-vehicle crash in Meductic, N.B.

On January 7, 2025, at approximately 5 p.m., members of the Western Valley Region RCMP, Canterbury and Debec Fire Departments and Ambulance New Brunswick responded to a report of a single-vehicle crash involving a transport truck on Highway 2 in Meductic.

The crash is believed to have occurred when the driver, travelling Eastbound, lost control of his transport truck, left the roadway and crashed. The driver of the transport truck was transported to hospital with what were believed to be non-life-threatening injuries. The passenger, a 48-year-old man, died at the scene as a result of his injuries.

A New Brunswick RCMP Collision Reconstructionist and a member of the New Brunswick Coroner’s Office are assisting with the investigation.

The investigation is ongoing.

The post Ontario man dead after fatal crash in Meductic first appeared on River Valley Sun.

The last confirmed case was on Nov. 28

The New Brunswick government has declared an end to the measles outbreak in Zone 3, which includes Fredericton and the upper Saint John River valley.

“While this outbreak is over, I encourage New Brunswickers to continue to stay up to date on their immunizations,” said Dr. Mark McKelvie, regional medical officer of health. “Vaccination is the most effective way to protect yourself and your loved ones against numerous vaccine-preventable diseases, like measles.”

The outbreak, which was declared on Nov. 1, began with a travel-associated case and spread to 50 people in the region. The last case was confirmed on Nov. 26.

During the outbreak, health officials reached 266 people through contact tracing, conducted active surveillance, provided advice for anyone exposed to measles, and urged people to ensure their vaccinations were up to date. In addition, as of Jan. 2, they had immunized 239 people at 30 special immunization clinics.

“I extend my sincere appreciation to the dedicated team of public health professionals and many other health system partners who worked tirelessly to bring this outbreak under control,” said Dr. Yves Léger, acting chief medical officer of health. “This situation is a good reminder that diseases that are happening elsewhere in the world can quickly arrive on our doorstep, and of the importance of being up to date on our immunizations to protect ourselves from these vaccine-preventable infections.”

Most people are protected from measles infection from two doses of vaccine. In New Brunswick, the vaccine against measles, mumps, rubella and varicella is part of the routine publicly funded schedule for babies aged 12 and 18 months. It is also free for children who have not received two doses and adults born in 1970 or later.

The measles virus is transmitted through the air or by direct contact with an infected person. Measles can be more severe in adults and infants, leading to complications. All residents are urged to consider vaccination the best way to protect themselves and their families against measles and other vaccine-preventable diseases.

The post Government declares Zone 3 measles outbreak over first appeared on River Valley Sun.

Police discover bodies of a man and woman inside a burning vehicle on Nov. 25

The New Brunswick RCMP’s Major Crime Unit (MCU) has released the names of the victims connected to its ongoing double homicide investigation in Chipman, N.B.

The RCMP said it has positively identified the victims as 47-year-old Robert Waugh and 23-year-old Victoria King, noting both are from the Fredericton area. 

The River Valley Sun previously confirmed that Waugh has ties the Nackawic area and King to the Sheffield area. 

The RCMP discovered the bodies on Nov. 25, 2024, at approximately 8 a.m., when members of the Chipman detachment responded to a report of a vehicle on fire with two individuals inside off Midland Road in Chipman.

Police said the responding officers located the bodies inside a white Chevrolet Equinox that had been consumed by fire. Early in the investigation, police determined the deaths as homicides.

On Dec. 11, the RCMP released a grainy photo of a Toyota Corolla that they described as a vehicle of interest in the Major Crime Unit’s investigation. 

As it continues to investigate the homicides, the Major Crime Unit is asking that anyone with information that could help further the investigation or who was travelling in the Chipman area the night of Nov. 24 or the morning of Nov. 25 to contact the Major Crime Unit at 1-888-506-RCMP (7267).

— With files from Theresa Blackburn

The post RCMP releases names of Chipman homicide victims first appeared on River Valley Sun.

Long-serving New Brunswick Liberal Member of Parliament (MP) and Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc says he will not run for the Liberal party’s leadership after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau resigned from the top job.

“While I am extremely grateful for the encouragement and the expressions of support I have received from caucus colleagues and Liberals across the country, I have decided not to be a candidate in the Liberal Party of Canada’s upcoming leadership race,” he said in a statement posted X, formerly Twitter.

LeBlanc has been a close ally to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who will officially resign after a successor is chosen. Trudeau prorogued parliament this week until March 24.

He was named finance minister after Chrystia Freeland publicly resigned from the position in December.

“Serving Canadians is an immense privilege – and at a moment when Canada is at a crucial juncture in its relationship with its most important ally and trading partner, the United States, I firmly believe that at this time, the way for me to serve our country is to direct my full attention to my job as Minister of Finance and Intergovernmental Affairs – working together with cabinet colleagues, Premiers, other party leaders, business and union leaders to make the case against the unjust application of tariffs on Canadian businesses and workers to the incoming Trump administration,” he said in the statement.

He goes on to say that the threat of these tariffs cannot be understated.

“I look forward to running as a candidate under a new Liberal leader in the next federal election, and to asking the people of Beausejour to renew their confidence in me as their Member of Parliament, as they have so graciously done over the last eight federal elections,” LeBlanc said.

The first-degree murder trial of Zakkary Hyulett Reed did not resume as scheduled in Saint John on Wednesday morning. 

The measles outbreak in the Fredericton and Saint John River Valley region has been declared over.

Dr. Mark McKelvie, the regional medical officer of health for Zone 3, said that while the outbreak is over, he encourages New Brunswickers to stay up-to-date with their immunizations.

“Vaccination is the most effective way to protect yourself and your loved ones against numerous vaccine-preventable diseases, like measles,” he said in a media release.

The outbreak was officially declared on Nov. 1 from a travel-associated case and spread to 50 people in the region. According to the Department of Health, the final case was confirmed on Nov. 26.

Health officials reached 266 people through contact tracing, conducted active surveillance, provided advice for anyone exposed to measles, and urged people to ensure their vaccinations were up to date.

The department said it immunized 239 people at 30 special immunization clinics.

“I extend my sincere appreciation to the dedicated team of public health professionals and many other health system partners who worked tirelessly to bring this outbreak under control,” said Dr. Yves Leger, the acting chief medical officer of health. “This situation is a good reminder that diseases that are happening elsewhere in the world can quickly arrive on our doorstep, and the importance of being up to date on our immunizations to protect ourselves from these vaccine-preventable infections.”

The department said in the release that most people are protected from the measles infection from two doses of the vaccine. The vaccine which protects against measles, mumps, rubella and varicella is publicly funded for babies aged 12 and 18 months.

It is also free for children who have not received two doses and for adults born in 1970 or later.

The measles virus is transmitted through the air or by direct contact with an infected person. It can be more severe in adults and young children.

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A passenger in a transport truck died at the scene of a single-vehicle crash Tuesday afternoon in Meductic, reports the RCMP.

The Western Valley Region detachment of the RCMP issued a news release Wednesday afternoon, reporting that emergency responders attended the scene of an accident the day before that claimed the life of a 48-year-old man from Brampton, Ont.

“On Jan. 7, 2025, at approximately 5 p.m., members of the Western Valley Region RCMP, Canterbury and Debec fire departments, and Ambulance New Brunswick responded to a report of a single-vehicle crash involving a transport truck on Highway 2 in Meductic,” the release said.

“The crash is believed to have occurred when the driver, travelling eastbound, lost control of his transport truck, left the roadway and crashed.”

The truck driver was taken to hospital with what were believed to be non-life-threatening injuries, the Mounties reported, but the passenger died at the scene from his injuries.

An RCMP collision reconstructionist and a representative from the New Brunswick coroner's office are assisting with the investigation, which is ongoing, the release said.

The Fredericton Independent can be reached by email here.

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All NB Liquor (ANBL) corporate stores have temporarily closed due to technical difficulties with its point-of-sale system. 

On the Crown corporation’s website, it said customers can continue to make purchases at all ANBL agency stores and grocery stores who sell alcohol. 

“We will update this notice when stores are open again. We apologize for the inconvenience,” it said on the notice. 

The City of Fredericton is looking to give first time homeowners a bit of a leg up when it comes to building their first home.

New Brunswick’s health minister and Fredericton doctors agree that something has to be done about the recent loss of a surgical specialty at the Chalmers hospital.

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The Oromocto woman at the centre of an early-morning Amber Alert on Monday appeared in court Wednesday to answer to earlier charges alleging criminal conduct last year.

Natasha Ashley Kelly, 34, of Finnamore Street, was accompanied by defence lawyer Michael Mallory in Fredericton provincial court Wednesday, scheduled to answer to multiple charges.

Kelly faces Aug. 22 counts of assault causing bodily harm to Erika Polchies, assault on Adam Sacobie, dangerous driving and endangering her one-year-old son’s life by abandoning him at Welamukotuk (Oromocto) First Nation.

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By Nicole Fawcett

Last month, I joined a club. It is an inclusive club, one that does not discriminate based on race, age, religion, wealth, health, or occupation. Membership spans every demographic, and despite its inclusivity, it is a club no one wishes to join. 

It is the club for mothers who have lost a child.

This club represents an unimaginable grief shared by too many, often due to the selfishness and poor decisions of others.

Each day, countless lives are devastated by driving under the influence, reckless speeding, and distracted driving. Tragically, society often normalizes these behaviours, despite the injuries and loss of life they cause. 

Canada, for instance, holds the highest per capita mortality rate from impaired driving among modern nations, yet it maintains some of the most lenient repercussions for these actions.

The first step toward meaningful change is acknowledging the power of language. 

Words matter. 

It is critical to stop referring to crashes and collisions as “accidents.” The term “accident” implies a lack of responsibility, suggesting an event that was unforeseen, unavoidable, and without malice or intent. But the choices to drive under the influence, speed, or drive distracted are deliberate. 

These actions show a blatant disregard for the safety of others and are entirely preventable.

Historically, the term “accident” gained traction in the early 1900s when automobiles first appeared on roads. 

Crashes and collisions, many involving pedestrians, were common. The automobile industry strategically promoted the term “automobile accidents” to shift responsibility away from drivers and vehicles, often blaming pedestrians instead. 

This campaign was so effective that over a century later, it continues to shape public perception.

By calling preventable incidents “accidents,” we inadvertently absolve individuals of accountability. For instance, crashes caused by impaired or reckless driving are not accidental – they are the result of conscious decisions. 

Referring to them as “accidents” diminishes the gravity of these actions and provides a loophole for avoiding responsibility.

Drivers who make such decisions – often a series of poor choices – must be held accountable for the harm, injury, and deaths they cause. It is not acceptable to sympathize with those responsible as though their actions were unavoidable. 

As a society, we must reject the notion that these tragedies are inevitable. They are not “part of life” but preventable losses that demand outrage and action.

On the night my son was killed, he chose not to drive under the influence. Yet, his life was taken by someone who made a different choice – a choice to disregard the safety of others. As a grieving mother, I am angry. 

But shouldn’t we all be? 

Few among us remain untouched by the consequences of impaired or dangerous driving. Our collective apathy perpetuates this crisis.

Every loss due to impaired or reckless driving is a loss that should never have occurred. 

It is time to abandon the language that excuses these actions. Let us recognize them for what they are: crashes and collisions caused by preventable choices. As a community and as a society, we must demand accountability and work toward a future where no one else is forced to join this tragic club.

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A Miramichi widow confronted the man accused of causing her husband’s death in a summer 2023 crash as he once again sought to adjourn his plea on a criminal charge Tuesday.

Cameron McFee, 66, of Walter Close in Fredericton, was back in Fredericton provincial court Tuesday, scheduled to elect mode of trial and enter a plea to an indictable charge of dangerous driving causing the death of Daniel Frenette.

The allegation stems from a fatal crash in Douglas on July 12, 2023, in which Frenette was killed when the dump truck McFee was driving crashed into his vehicle.

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A Fredericton woman for whom an arrest warrant had been issued last month after she didn’t show up in court to answer to fraud and forgery charges was back on the docket Tuesday.

Amanda Jayne Martin, 41, of Biggs Street, was supposed to attend in Fredericton provincial court Dec. 30 to answer to charges alleging she knowingly used a forged cheque belonging to Amal Bensaleh and defrauded the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) of less than $5,000, both in Fredericton on Dec. 31, 2023.

However, when she didn’t turn up, the presiding judge issued a warrant for her arrest.

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On April 8, 1942 the M/S Batory, with approx. 55 officers and 700 airmen, sailed from Gourock,  Scotland to establish No.34 Operational Training Unit (OTU) at Yarmouth, Nova Scotia (Canada),  one of the four OTUs established in Canada during World War II. Sailing into Halifax Harbour on  the evening of April 16th one airman, recalling their arrival in this new strange land, remarked: “We saw, for the first time since September, 1939, a city with lights on and no black out. We berthed at dockside,  disembarked to board a train, had our first Canadian meal, and what a meal after RAF fare! I will always  remember the canned peaches, a luxury beyond all dreams.” 

The Unit, after a long and bumpy train ride down the south shore, arrived the following morning at  Arcadia Crossing around 0800 hours. They then marched the remaining 4-5kms. into the camp  which was still incomplete – no plumbing, no heat, no water and muddy roads. So for the next  three or four weeks was to be a time of roll calls, fatigues and route marches, as they had no aircrafts  and nothing constructive to do. 

It was then decided to move the Unit to Pennfield Ridge on temporary bases – a decision which was  to forever impact the history of Charlotte County. The movement of the Unit commenced on May  18th and concluded May 27th– train from Yarmouth to Digby, ferry SS Princess Helene across the  Bay of Fundy to Saint John and then another train to Pennfield Ridge. 

The move from Yarmouth to Pennfield Ridge was not without its own trial & tribulations as No.2  Air Navigation School, with strength of over 1,300 airmen, was still in full operation with its last  course graduating May 25th and the station officially closing May 30th. Also, the Royal Canadian Air  Force was attempting to establish No.2 Operational Training Unit designed to operate Mitchell  aircraft in an operational setting. This Unit never officially came to fruition (disbanded July 20, 1942) and the several hundred airmen posted here to establish the Unit were then posted to Bagottville &  St John’s, Quebec and elsewhere. 

British Commonwealth Air Training Plan trainees and aircraft, the Lockheed-Vega Venutra, began  arriving on June 1st. Course No. 1 commenced on June 8th with 62 trainees and No.34 OTU began  to do the job it was organized for. However, it was determined the aerodrome was not large enough  to accommodate an Operational Training Unit so in late August No.34 Operational Training Unit  Detachment, Yarmouth, NS was created – trainees would commence their respective courses at “the  Ridge”, then detached to Yarmouth for their armament training portion of the course and then back  to Pennfield Ridge for graduation. Upon graduation they were mostly posted to No.1 “Y” Depot,  Halifax await transportation overseas to a battle squadron. 

From August 1942 until April 1943 Pennfield Ridge underwent rapid expansion – 40 structures to  69 which included a large Hanger with douglas fir beams (the largest in the Maritime provinces at  the time), a new Drill Hall, three large H-Huts on the south side of the highway, etc. 

On August 27, 1942, Pennfield Ridge became the permanent home of No.34 Operational Training  Unit was to remain a Royal Air Force (RAF) Unit until May 19, 1944.

G. Christian Larsen

G. Christian Larsen currently serves as President of Pennfield Parish Military Historical Society.  He has been actively involved in researching the genealogical & military history of Pennfield Parish for nearly four decades.  From 2009 until 2017 he hosted the annual Pennfield Ridge War Memorial Services.  Recognized at the provincial & federal levels for his work with Veterans having been awarded the Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee Medal (2012); Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medal (2023) and Minister of Veteran Affairs Commendation (2024).

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A capital-region man accused of accessing child pornography online, as well as a firearms offence, will return to court later in the month to answer to the charges.

Dana Mitchel Chase, 49, of Highway 104 in Brewers Mills, about 40 kilometres west of Fredericton, made his first appearance in Fredericton provincial court to face two indictable charges.

He’s accused of possessing and accessing child pornography at his home between Nov. 10 and 30, 2023.

Chase is also charged with a summary count of careless storage of a rifle.

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The lawsuit alleged the seafood company knowingly defrauded the U.S. government by creating shell companies to operate a fishery in Virginia

Program welcomes input from two Carleton North High School representatives

Deputy Mayor Karen Hargrove welcomed two new student councillors from Carleton North High School during the Dec. 10 District of Carleton North council meeting.

Sarah Hargrove, a Grade 12 student, is returning to the council for a second term, while Barrett Stone, a Grade 11 student, is a new member.

The students were selected by their fellow Carleton North High School student council members to represent the school within the district council.

“This evening marks an important step in the ongoing effort of the District of Carleton North to engage and empower our youth in municipal government,” said Hargrove. “[The student councillor program] allows us to consider valuable student perspectives in our decision-making processes while providing meaningful learning opportunities for the next generation of leaders.”

Hargrove congratulated the youth on becoming the second group of District of Carleton North student councillors.

“We look forward to your contributions and perspectives as part of our council,” she told them.

Mayor Harvey likewise welcomed the students, adding that he hoped the students would facilitate a two-way offering of information — giving the council insight into youthful perspectives of district issues while also being able to share issues with the student council.

The District of Carleton North student councillor program was implemented last year thanks to the hard work and advocacy of Sarah LaGarde, who was one of the first inaugural student councillors.

The post District of Carleton North appoints student councillors first appeared on River Valley Sun.

A Saint John jury has heard about a drug-filled night that led to a fatal shooting in the summer of 2023. 

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau resigns as leader + some mayors in Charlotte County discuss their triumphs and challenges in their communities in 2024 + changes to the St. Croix border hours come into effect.

Original Broadcast Date: January 7, 2025

CHCO-TV NewsBreak26 is an original CHCO Television production produced at the CHCO-TV studio in St. Andrews, New Brunswick, Canada.

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A capital-region senior accused of sexual assault and breaches of court orders wasn’t present when his case was called in court Tuesday, so now he’s a wanted man.

Brian Joseph MacKinnon, 72, of Route 615 in Springfield, about 40 kilometres west of Fredericton, was scheduled to appear in Fredericton provincial court to answer to several charges.

He faces a summary count of sexual assault, alleged to have occurred May 11 in Fredericton, and May 28 and June 11 counts of probation violation by failing to abstain from drugs.

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An outbreak of the measles in the Fredericton and Woodstock areas is over, say provincial health officials, who urged people to ensure they’re vaccinated against it.

The provincial government issued a news release Tuesday, advising it had declared the outbreak in Zone 3 was over.

Zone 3 includes Fredericton and the upper Saint John River Valley.

“While this outbreak is over, I encourage New Brunswickers to continue to stay up to date on their immunizations,” Dr. Mark McKelvie, regional medical officer of health, said in the release.

“Vaccination is the most effective way to protect yourself and your loved ones against numerous vaccine-preventable diseases, like measles.”

The outbreak was declared Nov. 1 and stemmed originally from a travel-associated case that spread to 50 people in the region, the release said.

“The last case was confirmed on Nov. 26,” it said.

Public health officials reached out to 266 people through contact tracing, conducted active surveillance for new potential cases, provided advice to those who were potentially exposed and urged people to ensure their vaccinations were up to date.

The province reports that as of Jan. 2, health-care providers had immunized 239 people through 30 special immunization clinics.

“This situation is a good reminder that diseases that are happening elsewhere in the world can quickly arrive on our doorstep, and of the importance of being up to date on our immunizations to protect ourselves from these vaccine-preventable infections,” Dr. Yves Léger, acting chief medical officer of health, said in the release.

Most people are protected from measles infection from two vaccine doses. In New Brunswick, the vaccine that protects against measles, mumps, rubella and varicella is part of the routine publicly funded schedule for babies aged 12 and 18 months.

It’s also available free for children who haven’t received two doses and for adults born in 1970 or later, the release said.

The virus is transmitted through the air or by direct contact with an infected person.

The disease can be more severe in adults and infants, the release said, and it can lead to complications.

The Fredericton Independent can be reached by email here.

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People in Bathurst will get a chance to ride the bus this year, now that city council has voted unanimously to approve a pilot transit project.

A measles outbreak in New Brunswick that resulted in a cluster of cases in Ontario and helped push Canada's case count to the highest it's been in a decade, is over, the Department of Health announced Tuesday.

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A former Leo Hayes High School teacher has denied allegations of sexual contact with a minor and luring that underage complainant online.

Christopher (“Topher”) Lee Jackson, 43, of Wellington Court, wasn’t present when his case was called once again in Fredericton provincial court Tuesday, but defence lawyer Sabrina Winters appeared on his behalf.

She said her client was electing to be tried in provincial court and pleading not guilty to the charges against him.

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A Waasis man at the centre of an alleged instance of vigilantism at a capital-region First Nation denied charges Tuesday alleging he violated the conditions of his release from custody.

Anthony Shane O’Blenis, 27, of Route 655, appeared with defence lawyer Edward Derrah in Fredericton provincial court Tuesday, scheduled for pleas on two allegations of breaching a police undertaking.

Derrah said his client was pleading not guilty to the Dec. 5 and 11 counts of violating a condition of the undertaking - namely, that he was found at Welamukotuk (Oromocto) First Nation when prohibited by the order from being in the indigenous community.

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J.D. Irving Ltd (JDI) has acquired another U.S.-based sawmill – this time in Masardis, Maine.

The Masardis Sawmill was previously owned by Groupe Lebel. A statement from JDI — a Saint John-based company — said the operation has a history of producing random-length spruce and fir lumber.

The operation employs 80 people and has the capacity to produce 115-million board feet annually.

“We are excited to grow our lumber production capacity in the state of Maine,” said Jerome Pelletier, the vice president of Irving Forest Products.

“The Masardis mill is well-located to access high-quality timber. It is also served by the Maine Northern Railway and benefits from having a team of highly skilled and dedicated employees who have worked together for decades to ensure the success of their operation.”

The sawmill, according to JDI, is located within close proximity to Irving’s 1.3 million acres of timberland in Maine.

It said with the addition of the Masardis operation, JDI now operates 10 sawmills as part of its solid wood operations, with a total annual capacity of 1.3-billion board feet.

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The RCMP issued an advisory that “a police operation” was underway in a small community north of Fredericton on Tuesday morning, telling people to avoid the area.

Mounties “are currently on scene of a police operation in the Storeytown Road area of Doaktown,” the RCMP announced on social media at about 9:15 a.m. Tuesday.

“Please avoid the area to allow police to do their work.”

Police didn’t share the nature of the situation in the village about an hour’s drive north of Fredericton, or if there is a risk to public safety.

However, the federal police force noted it would share additional information “as it becomes available.”

More to come…

The Fredericton Independent can be reached by email here.

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