Town to honour recipients at special Family Day ceremony in February

Do you know anyone who deserves recognition for their volunteer contributions to Woodstock?

If you do, the town is looking to hear from you.

Mayor Trina Jones and council members invite the public to nominate individuals who reside in the Woodstock area (Wards 1 to 5) for consideration for a Citizen Recognition Award.

In a post on the Woodstock website, the town explained the mayor will present the award recipients with a certificate of distinction at a ceremony during Family Day Weekend on Feb. 19.

Nominations for the six available awards must be received by 4 p.m. on Jan. 20, 2024 for 2023 nominees.

“These awards will be given to a citizen, group, or organization that has had a positive impact on the residents of Woodstock. They are the people who make our community and the lives of those around us better,” Woodstock officials explained in its notice. “We are so fortunate in our area to have such a giving community and so many people always willing to step up and offer their time, talents, or resources, or all of the above.”

The public can nominate someone or find more details by visiting the Woodstock at the following link: https://www.town.woodstock.nb.ca/p/mayors-citizen-recognition-awards

For more information, email the town at [email protected] or call 506-325-4600.

The Family Day presentation replaces the previous awards ceremony as part of the discontinued New Year’s Day Mayor’s Levee.

Mayor Jones recently announced the cancellation of the levee, explaining she hopes to attract a larger turnout for the special event on Family Day.

The post Woodstock seeking nominees for Mayor’s 2023 Citizen Recognition Awards first appeared on River Valley Sun.

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A Fredericton man convicted after trial of meth possession for trafficking purposes was denied bail Thursday on allegations he violated the conditions of his release.

Lawrence (Larry) Steven Chippin, 62, of Dundonald Street, appeared in Fredericton provincial court in person and in custody Thursday afternoon for a bail hearing.

He faces three counts of breaching the condition of a release order - namely, that he reside at a Dundonald Street apartment and follow a curfew there - alleged to have occurred Feb. 2, Oct. 4 and Nov. 25.

He’s also accused of possessing crystal meth Oct. 4.

Chipping had been charged in 2021 for possession of meth for the purpose of trafficking, and he was convicted after trial earlier this year. He remained free on the conditions of the afore-mentioned release order.

But that came to an end Thursday. Judge Scott Brittain, at the conclusion of his bail hearing, ruled Chipping hadn’t shown cause why he should be released, and he remanded him.

In most bail hearings, the burden is on the prosecution to demonstrate why a defendant should be remanded pending the outcome of his or her case.

But the law directs the burden shifts to the defence in bail hearings for those alleged to have breached release orders to show why they should be released.

The evidence presented at Chippin’s bail hearing and the reasons for Brittain’s decision Thursday are subject to a publication ban until the charges are resolved in court.

However, when Chippin was arrested on the breach charges and appeared by telephone Monday, he claimed he’d moved from the Dundonald Street apartment and had been living at a home on Kingsley Road in Estey’s Bridge for a while, with the full knowledge of authorities.

Brittain remanded Chippin until Jan. 8, when he’s expected to enter pleas to the breach charges and the count of meth possession.

Sentencing looms

Chippin’s sentencing hearing for possessing meth for the purpose of trafficking on July 30, 2021, is also set for Jan. 8.

He’s going to be sentenced for other offences at that time as well: possessing cocaine and meth May 19, 2021; and breaching a police undertaking on July 5, 2021, requiring him to reside at a McGee Street home in Lincoln and to observe a curfew there.

Precedents have directed sentencing judges that generally, when dealing with crimes of trafficking in hard drugs, offenders can expect federal-prison terms of at least two years.

Chippin was found to be in possession of significant quantities of meth when city police executed a search warrant at Room 221 of the Days Inn on Prospect Street on July 30, 2021, where he was living at the time.

In addition to the drugs, officers also found other related paraphernalia, including dime baggies, scoresheets and digital scales, and online messaging threads found on Chippin’s laptop also pointed to his involvement in trafficking.

Before his detention, Chippin spent a great deal of his time administering groups on social media focused on criminal-justice issues.

He manages Facebook groups including Missing & Unsolved New Brunswick and NB Proud that call for stronger action on missing-persons investigations and policing in the name of public safety.

Don MacPherson can be contacted at [email protected].

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New Brunswick Auditor General Paul Martin raised questions in his annual report about whether three school districts followed government rules when sending dozens of employees around the world on training trips. 

Only about 14 per cent of eligible New Brunswickers have received the new COVID-19 vaccine designed to target the Omicron XBB.1.5 subvariant, figures from the Department of Health show.

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The man who killed three Mounties in Moncton almost a decade ago has a lawyer on new charges alleging a prison assault who on Thursday requested the case be delayed until early next year.

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A Maugerville man who’s been remanded on assault and firearms allegations will stand trial on those charges in the spring.

Andrew Jim Roberts, 39, of Copper Head Lane, appeared in Fredericton provincial court in person and in custody Thursday for a case-management conference.

He previously elected to be tried in provincial court and pleaded not guilty to charges of assault on Jessica LaPointe; threats against her; possession of a sawed-off, 12-gauge, pump-action shotgun and a black CO2 revolver handgun for the purpose of committing an offence; possession of a prohibited weapon (the shotgun) without a licence; possession of it without a licence; possession of the shotgun with readily accessible ammunition; violation of a court-ordered firearms prohibition; improperly storage of a firearm.

Proceedings in case-management conferences aren’t open to the public, but once it concluded, the matter went back on the court record to schedule Roberts’ trial.

Judge Cameron Gunn set it down for April 26 and May 3. He remanded Roberts again until that time.

The charges arose after a six-hour standoff with Fredericton police officers at a Marysville residence Aug. 31.

Officers with firearms at the ready cordoned off the neighbourhood around the intersection of Crockett Street and Pettigrove Crescent on the morning in question, locking it down for several hours.

The Fredericton Police Force later reported it had received a report of an armed suspect inside a home in the area, and that after six hours, that suspect - subsequently identified as Roberts - was arrested without incident.

Don MacPherson can be contacted at [email protected].

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A Fredericton man facing a long and varied list of charges laid by the Fredericton Police Force and the RCMP will remain in custody until the prosecutions he’s facing wrap up.

Timothy Robert Dunphy, 50, of Victory Street, appeared in Fredericton provincial court via video conference from the Saint John Regional Correctional Centre on Thursday for a bail hearing, after previously postponing the proceedings on a couple of occasions.

Dunphy faces charges from two different policing agencies alleged to have occurred over the course of three months this fall.

The RCMP has accused him of breaking into a detached garage in Maugerville belonging to Steven Basque, stealing Basque’s 2023 Can-Am all-terrain vehicle, possessing that stolen ATV, impaired driving, dangerous driving and causing property damage to Basque’s garage door, all on Sept. 14.

The Fredericton Police Force has also charged him with various alleged offences in the capital in October and November.

It alleges he stole an electric bike worth less than $5,000 belonging to Princess Auto on Oct. 23; that he had a stolen 2009 Ford Fusion belonging to Robert Donald Moorcraft in his possession, drove dangerously and fled from police, all on Nov. 23; and that he caused property damage to a cable and lock at the southside Kent Building Supplies store and stole tools belonging to Napa Auto Parts on Nov. 25.

After his bail hearing Thursday, provincial court Judge Scott Brittain ruled Dunphy’s continued detention was merited.

The evidence presented at the hearing and the reasons for the judge’s decision are subject to a publication ban until the various cases against Dunphy conclude.

He’ll be back before a judge Jan. 4 to enter pleas.

The Fredericton Police Force issued an alert on social media in late November about Dunphy, noting officers were looking for him because he was "arrestable on several police files."

He was located and arrested in the days after that advisory was released.

Don MacPherson can be contacted at [email protected].

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New Brunswick auditor general Paul Martin says high debt levels and expensive impending infrastructure upgrades at the province's Crown utility are raising concerns for him.

Woodstock-area resident and former U.S. Marine Ken Sercerchi presented with Quilt of Valor

With a small gathering of friends, family, Legion, and ANAVETs members on hand Thursday evening, Dec. 7, at the Hartland Royal Canadian Legion, former U.S. Marine and Woodstock-area resident Ken Sercerchi proudly accepted his Quilt of Valor.

Christine Corey, representing the Quilt of Valor Foundation (QOVF) USA, travelled from Houlton, Maine, to present Sercerchi with the special quilt she made.

Corey said she represented QOVF members from across the U.S. She explained the movement began in 2003 when a quilter named Catherine Roberts, while her son served in Iraq, began making the quilts.

“Since that time, more than 350,000 Quilts of Valor have been awarded,” she said. “Our mission is to honour service members and veterans who have been touched by war with comforting and healing Quests of Valor.”

While Corey has presented several quilts, her presentation to Sercerchi was the first she presented outside the U.S.

While born in Canada, Sercerchi volunteered for the U.S. Marine Corps and served in Vietnam in 1968 and 69.

He returned to live in Canada after his discharge.

“This quilt is an expression of gratitude meant to thank you and comfort you,” Corey told Sercerchi. “We honour you for leaving all you hold dear to serve, whether in time of crisis or time of peace. This Quilt of Valor unequivocally says thank you for service, sacrifice and valor serving our nation.”

Along with the quilt, Corey presented Sercerchi with a certificate addressed to USMC 3rd Marine Division, 1968-1969 and signed by QOVF Executive Director Lori Thompson and Corey as Aroostook County, Maine, QOVF co-ordinator.

It stated, “The Quilts of Valor Foundation wishes to recognize you for your service to our nation. We consider it our privilege to do so. Though we may never know the extent of your sacrifice to protect and defend the United States of America, we award you this Quilt of Valor as an expression of gratitude from a grateful nation.”

The post Local veteran receives warm gift of gratitude for military service first appeared on River Valley Sun.

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A New Maryland man accused of sexual offences dating back a decade - including having intercourse with his underage sister - will elect how he wants to be tried in the new year.

Robert Philip Warrington, 28, of Douglas Crescent, appeared in Fredericton provincial court by telephone from Nova Scotia on Thursday to make his initial appearance on several indictable charges alleging sex crimes.

Among the counts before the court was one of incest, alleging that between Sept. 7, 2013, and Dec. 31, 2016, in Harvey, Warrington had sexual intercourse with a complainant knowing she was his sister by blood relation.

Typically in such cases, the prosecution requests a publication ban to protect a complainant’s identity, and given the familial relationship, that could preclude naming the  defendant as well.

However, no such ban was requested Thursday. In fact, prosecutor Matthew Paik specifically said the Crown was not seeking one.

“The complainant does not want a publication ban,” he said.

Warrington faces five other related charges, alleged to have occurred during the same timeframe and in Harvey as well.

Those charges are sexual assaulting the same complainant, touching her for a sexual purpose, inviting her to touch him for a sexual purpose, surreptitiously observing her when she had an expectation of privacy and making sexually explicit material available to her with the intent of committing a sexual offence.

The charges refer to the complainant only as “J.W.” and as the defendant’s sister, and some of them specify she was a minor at the time the events are alleged to have occurred.

Mathurin told the defendant that he should have appeared in person in Fredericton provincial court for his first appearance on the charges, but she understood he was unable to travel Thursday.

Warrington asked for an adjournment so he could apply for legal aid. He said he works “but not much.”

It wasn’t clear if he’s still living in New Brunswick or in Nova Scotia, as he was advised he needed to apply for legal aid in this province, not in Nova Scotia, since the charges are here.

The judge set the case over to Jan. 18 for election of mode of trial and pleas.

Don MacPherson can be contacted at [email protected].

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Former MP and cabinet minister Bernard Valcourt mounted a spirited defence of his actions Thursday in his criminal trial on charges of resisting and obstructing police.

Chase the Ace funds to help feed students at Hartland Community School

The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 24 in Harland delivered financial support to the Hartland Community School Hot Lunch program through its Chase the Ace fundraiser on Dec. 7.

Branch President Gary Bovard explained that Hartland Legion presented HCS principal Andy Clark with a cheque for $500 from its Chase the Ace proceeds. He said the branch directs money raised through the popular ongoing fundraising event to community projects.

“The donation is to help with unfunded costs associated with the school’s “Hot Lunch” program,” said Bovard. “We believe every child deserves a nourishing lunch, and thanks to the community support of our ‘Chase the Ace,’ we are happy to support worthy community endeavours such as this.”

Legion treasurer Cheryl Broad presented the cheque to Clark during a Thursday afternoon visit to the school.

She and Bovard encouraged others in the greater Hartland community to support the vital lunch program.

“The Legion would like to challenge the local business community to step up and match this donation, or at least consider a donation to this worthy fund,” Bovard said.

The post Hartland Legion supports local lunch program first appeared on River Valley Sun.

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A lawyer for a former Rusagonis resident accused of counterfeit-cash and fraud offences told court Thursday he’s never met his client and has been unable to find him.

Tyler Joshua Depow, 33, of no fixed address but formerly of Rusagonis, was scheduled to appear in Fredericton provincial court Thursday to answer to several charges.

He’s accused of defrauding Carevo Auto Solutions of Dartmouth, N.S., of a 2020 Subaru WRX, obtaining that car  under false pretences with intent to defraud and fraudulently personating Cecil Mitchell to obtain the car, all on March 15.

While the business is based in Nova Scotia, the charges allege events in Fredericton.

Depow is also accused of possessing three counterfeit $50 US bills and two $20 US bills, using those bogus bills as if they were legitimate, and breaching a probation order, all on July 19 in Oromocto.

Ben Reentovich, a staff lawyer with Legal Aid New Brunswick, told court Thursday he’d been assigned to represent Depow, but there was a problem: he hasn’t been able to find his client.

He said he was told Depow was in custody at the Saint John Regional Correctional Centre, and he contacted the jail to speak with him.

“He’s not there,” Reentovich said.

“He was released on Nov. 23 on conditions,” Judge Lucie Mathurin said as she reviewed endorsements on the court file.

“Have you met him?”

“I haven’t,” the defence lawyer said.

At the request of prosecutor Matthew Paik, the judge ordered a warrant for Depow’s arrest.

This isn’t the first time Depow’s whereabouts was an issue for authorities.

The RCMP reported early this year that he’d been reported as missing to police. In a news release issued Feb. 22, the Mounties said Depow hadn’t been seen since Dec. 11, 2022, and last spoke with family members Dec. 27.

That news release stated Depow drives a black Jeep Patriot with New Brunswick licence plate GVE 589.

Months later, on Nov. 17, the RCMP followed up and reported that Depow had been found.

That coincided with his arrest on the outstanding charges.

Don MacPherson can be contacted at [email protected].

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It has been a cold and dark few days for some New Brunswick residents.  Terry McPhee, who lives in Nerepis, northwest of Saint John, lost his power around 8 a.m. Monday.

The Department of Health was unable to provide evidence-based documentation to substantiate 33 Public Health decisions made during the COVID-19 pandemic, Auditor General Paul Martin says in an audit released Thursday.

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Quispamsis Mayor Libby O’Hara first recipient of Arthur Slipp Municipal Leader of the Year Award

Quispamsis Mayor Libby O’Hara became the recipient of the Union of Municipalities of New Brunswick’s inaugural leadership award named in honour of a man colleagues said exhibited two decades of leadership at UMNB and his hometown of Woodstock. 

Former Woodstock Mayor Art Slipp and his wife Lynn attended the Nov. 25 UMNB AGM banquet to help present the Arthur Slipp Municipal Leader of the Year Award to O’Hara. 

UMNB Executive Director Dan Murphy said Slipp, who served on the board for 20 years, including two as president and three as past president, deserved to see the award carry his name. O’Hara earned to be its first recipient. 

Murphy said naming the award after Slipp was an easy decision. 

“The board wanted to recognize the outstanding contributions of Arthur,” he said. “He’s one of the long-term pillars of our organization and a pillar for the town of Woodstock.” 

Slipp joined Murphy and UMNB president Andrew Blaic to present the award, which recognizes “unwavering integrity and steadfast commitment to creating lasting change” to O’Hara. 

In presenting the award, UMNB described the Quispamsis mayor’s achievements in earning the honour. 

“Mayor O’Hara’s exceptional leadership, marked by her adept guidance through challenging times and dedication to fostering transparent governance, stands as a testament to her unwavering dedication to her community,” UMNB explained in a media release. “Her remarkable ability to foster collaboration, promote work-life balance, and uphold a culture of transparency has earned her widespread admiration and respect among her peers.”

In accepting the award, O’Hara noted her years of working with Slipp at UMNB and learning from the example he set. 

Slipp described O’Hara as a worthy recipient, noting how she steered her community through challenging times this year. 

“It was great to honour Libby,” he said. 

Slipp acknowledged his surprise when informed the new award would carry his name. 

“I was very honoured and surprised when they told me,” he said. “I was particularly pleased to be invited to participate in the ceremony.” 

During his over 20 years on the UMNB board, Slipp said he worked with every premier since Bernard Lord and multiple municipal leaders dealing with high-profile issues such as establishing the gas tax fund and municipal reform. 

Slipp said UMNB’s next significant challenge is to work with the province to restructure municipal and regional funding. 

Murphy said Slipp offered sage advice and provided experience and wisdom as UMNB and municipal governments took on challenging issues.

“We still call on Art for advice,” he said. 

As Slipp does on multiple occasions, he praised his wife Lynn for support over the years.

“We were a team,” he said. 

Lynn said she always enjoyed attending events like the AGM banquets and appreciated being invited this year. 

“We really enjoyed seeing all the people again,” she said. 

Lynn described it as “very emotional” seeing Art recognized “for his whole body of work for all those years.” 

She said from his days as a teacher, Art always embraced leadership. 

“Art was a born leader,” she said. 

UMNB also presented two other awards at the Nov. 25 event, including the prestigious Louise Breau Memorial Award named in honour of the late Millville mayor. 

The UMNB release described Breau as “a reliable, sincere and dynamic person who wanted to be involved and would help out in any way she could.” 

UMNB presented the 2023 award to Grand Falls Mayor Marcel Deschênes, who has been an integral part of UMNB’s journey from its inception. 

“With over 25 years of tireless service to his community and an impactful legacy, Marcel has been a pillar for UMNB throughout the years,” UMNB said. “His steadfast dedication to community development, spanning decades, showcases an unparalleled devotion to his beloved Grand Falls.”

The evening’s first award, the Raymond Murphy Memorial Award, commemorates the legacy of UMNB’s esteemed past president and executive director from Rexton. 

Established in 2017, the award honours a member municipality volunteer, elected or non-elected, who has exhibited outstanding devotion to serving their community. 

The 2023 winner was Deputy Mayor Kate Akagi of St. Andrews for her “remarkable commitment to social, cultural, and economic enhancement within New Brunswick.” 

The release said Akagi’s multifaceted contributions as an educator, devoted volunteer, Indigenous liaison, and civic supporter left an essential mark on her community. Aragi was recently inducted into the Order of New Brunswick.

The post Former Woodstock mayor helps present UMNB award named in his honour first appeared on River Valley Sun.

Now that a new emergency shelter is open, Ensemble Moncton will no longer permit people to camp out in their parking lot or on their front porch.

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Listuguj, located on the border of Quebec and New Brunswick, has managed and participated in the shrimp fishery for the last two decades. They're calling for a moratorium on the fishery in the region to protect the shrimp population.

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The former coach of the University of New Brunswick's women's volleyball team, who was turfed this fall before the end of his contract, is suing the university for wrongful dismissal.

Legal counsel for Richard Schick filed a notice of action and statement of claim in the Court of King's Bench in Fredericton on Dec. 8 against UNB.

Schick's lawsuit says he was hired in May 2021 to coach the university's women's volleyball team, and he had a three-year contract set to expire May 3, 2024.

"On Oct. 31, 2023, UNB terminated the employment of Mr. Schick, allegedly for cause," the statement of claim says.

"The alleged cause, as set out in the letter of termination, was for actions and behaviours that violated UNB's discrimination, sexual harassment and harassment policy."

The lawsuit describes the termination letter as "deficient," alleging it didn't detail specifically what Schick would have done in violation of the policy and didn't specify when the supposed breaches were supposed to have occurred.

The court filing argues that amounted to a violation of Section 30 (2) of the Employment Standards Act.

That section of the provincial legislation states in part, “Where an employer dismisses an employee for cause the employer shall do so in writing, setting out the reasons for such action… unless this section is complied with no dismissal without notice is valid notwithstanding that cause for such action exists.”

None of the allegations in Schick’s statement of claim has been proven in court.

"The plaintiff further states that he did not engage in any conduct that constitutes just cause at common law," the statement of claim says.

"Prior to the termination, Mr. Schick had never been subject to any disciplinary action. Mr. Schick was never warned that his employment was in jeopardy."

He argues UNB breached his employment contract, constituting a wrongful dismissal and causing him to incur damages.

"UNB's actions of abruptly terminating Mr. Schick's employment, and wrongfully alleging cause for termination, have seriously damaged Mr. Schick's professional reputation and impeded his ability to find new employment," the lawsuit states.

"UNB's actions were unfair, misleading, unduly insensitive and in bad faith. The manner of the termination has caused Mr. Schick significant mental distress."

The statement also notes Schick left his family behind in Vancouver to take the job in Fredericton in 2021.

As UNB's women's volleyball coach, the statement of claim says, Schick received an annual salary of $87,820, group benefits coverage, pension plan contributions and four weeks of paid vacation.

As damages in the legal action, Schick is seeking the balance of those payments, moving expenses, unspecified "aggravated damages," interests and costs.

Andy Campbell, communications manager with UNB Athletics, referred questions about the lawsuit and Schick’s termination to university administration.

When contacted for comment, Marcia Seitz-Ehler, UNB’s interim director of communications, said the institution couldn’t comment on a matter that’s before the courts.

The university has yet to file a statement of defence, which isn’t unusual so soon after a lawsuit was initially filed.

No date has been set for the case to be heard in court.

Campbell said Wednesday the executive director of UNB Reds is filling in as the women’s volleyball team’s coach in the wake of Schick’s dismissal.

“John Richard is serving as the interim head coach this season,” Campbell wrote in an email to the Fredericton Independent. 

“He previously coached the team for 14 seasons (1998-99 thru 2011-12).”

How things have changed

When UNB announced Schick’s hiring in April 2021, the news release detailed his background in volleyball both as a player and a coach, dating back to the 1990s.

He played volleyball professionally in Germany for one season before moving onto teaching and coaching.

He coached successful men’s teams at Red Deer College, the University of Alberta and the University of British Columbia, the release said, and he was named national coach of the year in 2003. 

Schick also served as an assistant coach with Volleyball Canada’s women’s team, which excelled on the national and international stage.

Richard touted Schick’s experience and reputation as a major get for UNB Athletics at the time.

“Our committee was impressed with the depth and quality of the candidates, and although several finalists would have grown our program, Coach Schick stood out from the field, and above it,” Richard said in the release. 

“He’s won as a student-athlete and a head coach at both the CCAA and U SPORTS levels. Throw in his experience with national team programs and we couldn’t be happier to see him land here.”

Don MacPherson can be contacted at [email protected].

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The New Brunswick government laid out a 12-year strategy for how it plans to transition to using clean energy, but Premier Blaine Higgs warns it's going to be a "difficult" transition that requires help from Ottawa.

Experience a marvelous mix of magic, music, and mind reading

Sponsored by the Dooryard Arts Festival, Dwight and Fay Fraser, Debra and Andrew McCain, Stockford Reefer Services, and CYV Chevrolet, Buick, GMC Ltd.

Get your tickets while you still can! Start your magical holiday season with a little bit of magic!

The post Christmas in the Dooryard joyously presents: Nathaniel Rankin, Canadian Champion of Magic first appeared on River Valley Sun.

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A jury trial in a second-degree murder case that was set down earlier this month for late 2024 has been bumped to February 2025.

The Court of King’s Bench, during its monthly motions day Dec. 4, scheduled a judge and jury trial for Jodie Carrie Clark, 31, of Minto, for Nov. 26 to 29 and Dec. 2 to 6, 2024.

Clark is accused of second-degree murder in the October 2022 death of Alexander “Andy” Ladds at his home in Maugerville.

While the trial dates were set down just the week before, the case was back on the Court of King’s Bench docket at the Burton Courthouse on Monday.

Due to a scheduling conflict for defence counsel, Clark’s jury trial was adjourned for a couple of months.

It’s now set to begin Feb. 18, 2025, and expected to last 15 days.

Clark will remain in custody until the case concludes.

An RCMP news release issued last year said police and paramedics were dispatched to a Maugerville home on Highway 105 the evening of Oct. 9, 2022.

Ladds was found inside the residence, suffering from serious injuries, police reported, and he was rushed to hospital.

The victim succumbed to his injuries Oct. 10, 2022.

Clark, who was living with Ladds at the time, was subsequently arrested and charged with second-degree murder Oct. 11, 2022.

Don MacPherson can be contacted at [email protected].

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It was a bad year for maple syrup production in New Brunswick — and across Canada. New Brunswick saw a 35 per cent drop in maple syrup production stemming from poor weather conditions, according to data released by Statistics Canada.

Held for bail hearing on gun charges

Martina Crouse, 32, of Rosedale, appeared in provincial court in custody on Dec. 12 and was remanded to jail. She returns to court in custody for a bail hearing on Dec. 14 at 10:30 a.m.

Crouse was arrested on a warrant by sheriffs after arriving late at the courthouse. On Nov. 22, she was taken into custody on three charges and released with conditions, including an order to attend court as required.

RCMP charged Crouse with possession of a firearm without a licence (a rifle), improper storage of a gun, and possession of a firearm with the serial number altered concerning an incident on July 27 at Rosedale.

Criminal harassment charges withdrawn

The crown withdrew charges against Joanna Metherell, 46, and Maria Metherell, 19, of Richmond Corner, during provincial court on Dec. 12.

The Metherells were each charged by RCMP with harassing another person by repeatedly communicating through text messages in connection with an incident on Sept. 9, 2022, at Limestone. 

Defence Counsel Patrick Hurley appeared in court on their behalf via teleconference on Tuesday. Crown Prosecutor Bronwyn Mooney said the crown decided not to proceed with the case as there was little chance of conviction.

Bail hearing scheduled for Thursday

Terrance Wright of Plaster Rock appeared in provincial court in custody on Dec. 12 and was remanded to jail. He returns to court in custody for a bail hearing on Dec. 14 at 9:30 a.m.

RCMP charged Wright with three counts of uttering threats against a female victim and committing mischief causing property damage in connection with an incident on Dec. 11 at Greenfield. He was ordered to have no contact with the complainant.

Greenfield man back in custody

Dustin Arthur Hawksley, 28, of Greenfield, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on Dec. 11 after being arrested on new charges related to breaching a release order. He was remanded to jail to await a bail hearing on Dec. 14 at 1:30 p.m.

RCMP charged Hawksley with breach of a release order by violating electronic monitoring (ankle bracelet), escaping lawful custody, assaulting a police officer and resisting arrest in connection with an incident on Dec. 6 at Greenfield. 

Hawksley is also awaiting plea on several other charges. He appeared in provincial court in custody for a bail hearing on Sept. 28 and was released with conditions, including wearing an electronic monitoring device attached to his ankle. He was also placed under house arrest at a residence in Greenfield but was brought back into custody on Dec. 7.

Hawksley was charged by RCMP with break and enter at a dwelling house, two counts of assault on a female victim, and assault with a weapon (a plate) in connection with an incident on July 2 at Bloomfield. 

Woodstock Police also charged him with assaulting a female, assault by choking and breach of an undertaking for another incident on Aug. 5 in Woodstock. He was arrested on a warrant on Sept. 24. 

Hawksley was ordered to have no contact with the two complainants and must have no drugs, alcohol or firearms in his possession. He must also attend court as required.

Suspended sentence, probation 

Kerry Shawn Dennis, 61, of Wotstak (Woodstock) First Nation, appeared in provincial court for sentencing on Dec. 5 after pleading guilty to two charges laid by Woodstock Police. He received a suspended sentence and 12 months of probation. 

Dennis was charged with possession of methamphetamine and carrying a concealed weapon (brass knuckles) stemming from an incident on March 2 in Woodstock. A one-year prohibition on firearms was also imposed as part of his sentence.

Conditional sentence for break-in

Shawna Schriver, 43, of Johnville, formerly of Carlow, appeared for sentencing in provincial court on Dec. 12 after changing her plea to guilty on two charges laid by RCMP. 

She received a six-month conditional sentence, including three months of house arrest and three months of following a curfew. She was also placed on probation for 12 months. The accused had a prior criminal record.

Schriver was charged with breaking and entering and resisting arrest in connection with an incident at a vacant residence in Upper Kintore on May 25, 2022. She pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of indictable mischief causing property damage and resisting arrest. 

A co-accused, Timothy Canam, 43, of Carlow, was sentenced to 13 months in jail, minus time served, when he appeared in provincial court in custody on Oct. 6, 2022. He was charged with break, enter, and theft in connection with the same incident. He pleaded guilty to the offence. After his arrest, Canam was denied bail and remanded into custody at a provincial jail.

Fined for impaired driving

Frederick William Keilty, 61, of Woodstock, appeared in provincial court on Dec. 12 and pleaded guilty to impaired driving. He was fined $2,000 and was prohibited from driving for one year.

Woodstock Police charged Keilty following an incident on Sept. 4 on Lower Main Street in Woodstock. The court heard his blood alcohol reading was twice the legal limit.

Jail sentence expected for McSheffrey

Emily McSheffrey, 26, of Waterville, appeared in provincial court on Dec. 12 for sentencing after changing her plea to guilty on eight charges laid by RCMP.

Crown Prosecutor Bronwyn Mooney told the court McSheffrey deserved 60 days in jail, followed by a lengthy probation period. The accused had no prior criminal record. Mooney also recommended a $2,000 fine for McSheffrey on a breathalyzer charge.

Defence Counsel Lindsay Paul requested a conditional sentence of house arrest, noting McSheffrey was remorseful for her actions and suffered from mental health issues and long-term drug addiction. 

Associate Chief Judge Brian C. McLean reserved his decision on sentence until Jan. 12, 2024, at 9:30 a.m.

McSheffrey appeared in provincial court for sentencing in July on five charges and told the court she wanted to withdraw her guilty plea on one of them. On Sept. 14, she abandoned her application for a hearing and then entered guilty pleas on all charges laid against her. 

McSheffrey pleaded guilty to refusing a breathalyzer on Aug. 29, 2020, in Jacksonville; guilty to assaulting a police officer by biting him on the hand, resisting arrest, and fraudulent impersonation to avoid arrest on April 8, 2021, in Perth-Andover; guilty to mischief causing property damage to a vehicle, and assault with a weapon (a rock) involving a female victim in connection with an incident on Nov. 13, 2021, in Wicklow; guilty to uttering threats and assaulting a police officer on July 6, 2022, in Waterville; guilty to possession of a stolen side-by-side on Nov. 8, 2022, in Bath; guilty to assaulting a male complainant on Feb. 21 in Wicklow by punching and kicking him; guilty to uttering threats in a text message and breach of an undertaking on April 3 in Wicklow; and guilty to breach of an undertaking on July 7 at Woodstock First Nation.

RCMP also charged her with uttering threats involving a male complainant for an incident on May 12 at Florenceville-Bristol. She agreed to sign a 12-month peace bond, and that charge did not proceed. 

Newbridge man facing four charges

Nicholas Carl Manzer, 26, of Newbridge, will appear in provincial court on Jan. 9, 2024, at 9:30 a.m. for plea on four charges laid by RCMP.

Manzer was charged with possession of a firearm (a rifle) while prohibited, possession of a gun without a licence, possession of a stolen truck, and improper storage of a firearm concerning an incident on Nov. 11 at Woodstock First Nation. He made his first court appearance on Dec. 5 when the matter was adjourned to the new date.

Skiff Lake woman facing several charges

Megan Leigh Harrison, 24, of Skiff Lake, will appear in provincial court on Jan. 9, 2024, at 9:30 a.m. to answer multiple charges.

Woodstock Police charged Harrison with uttering threats, assault involving a male victim, unlawful entry at a dwelling house, and breach of an undertaking stemming from an incident on Nov. 18 in Woodstock. She was released on an undertaking on Dec. 5 until her next court appearance. 

On Dec. 12, another charge of impaired driving was also laid for an incident on June 10. A warrant is being held on file until Harrison’s next court appearance.

Sentencing delayed until March

Earl James Demerchant, 32, of Woodstock, will appear in provincial court for sentencing on March 5, 2024, at 1:30 p.m. He pleaded guilty to two charges laid by Woodstock Police.

Demerchant was charged with assault involving a female victim on June 1, 2021, and breach of an undertaking on Nov. 11, 2022, for incidents in Woodstock. His sentencing was scheduled for Dec. 5 but was adjourned to allow for the completion of a pre-sentence report.

First appearance for Woodstock man

Charles Wylie Reinhardt, 37, of Woodstock, will appear in provincial on Jan. 9, 2024, at 9:30 a.m. for plea on charges laid by Woodstock Police.

Reinhardt was charged with dangerous driving, flight from police, refusing a breathalyzer demand and resisting arrest following an incident on July 30 in Woodstock. He made his first court appearance on Dec. 5 when the matter was adjourned to the new date.

In custody awaiting plea

Wyatt DeLong, 28, of Cloverdale, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on Dec. 7 for plea on four charges. His matter was adjourned until Dec. 15 at 9:30 a.m. at the request of his defence counsel.

DeLong was charged with discharging a firearm with intent, flight from police, dangerous driving and breach of probation in connection with an incident on July 14 at Florenceville-Bristol when shots were allegedly fired at a police officer. 

Janis Buchanan, 28, of Perth-Andover, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on Sept. 26 and pleaded guilty to robbery with violence for an incident on May 29 at Florenceville-Bristol. She was sentenced to two years in federal prison on Oct. 24.

DeLong and Buchanan were arrested after a manhunt in Victoria County in connection with a series of incidents in the upper River Valley.

Returning to court for plea

Kyle Laurie Williams, 35, of Clearview, will appear in provincial court on Jan. 9, 2024, at 9:30 a.m. for plea on one charge laid by RCMP.

Williams was charged with transmitting intimate images without consent concerning an incident on June 4 at Centreville. Williams made his first court appearance on Dec. 5 when the matter was adjourned to the new date.

Bloomfield man faces charges

Kenneth Greer, 60, of Bloomfield, will appear in provincial court on Jan. 9, 2024, at 9:30 a.m. for plea on three charges laid by RCMP.

Greer was charged with uttering threats, careless use of a firearm, and assault while threatening to use a weapon (a gun) involving a female victim for an incident on Sept. 9 at Bloomfield. He made his first court appearance on Dec. 5 when the matter was adjourned to the new date.

Mischief charge laid in break-in

Darren Richard Hamilton, 63, of Woodstock, will appear in provincial court on Jan. 9, 2024, at 9:30 a.m. for plea on one charge laid by Woodstock Police.

Hamilton was charged with breaking into a dwelling house to commit mischief concerning an incident between Aug. 5 and 6 in Woodstock. He made his first court appearance on Dec. 5 when the matter was adjourned to the new date.

Facing impaired driving charge

Jason Randall Watson, 27, of Medford, will appear in provincial court on Jan. 9, 2024, at 9:30 a.m. for plea on an impaired driving charge.

RCMP charged Watson in connection with an incident on Sept. 1 near Tobique Narrows. He made his first court appearance on Dec. 5 when the matter was adjourned to the new date.

Facing two sex charges

Edward Brennan McGraw, 28, of Woodstock, appeared in provincial court on Dec. 12 at 9:30 a.m. for plea on two sex charges. He elected trial at the Court of King’s Bench by judge alone. A preliminary hearing date was set for April 9, 2024, at 1:30 p.m. 

Woodstock Police charged McGraw with sexual assault and touching for a sexual purpose in connection with an incident on July 1, 2022, in Woodstock. 

Assault charge withdrawn

Clay Nicholson, 27, of Woodstock, formerly of Clearview, appeared for trial in provincial court on Dec. 7 after pleading not guilty to assault. The crown withdrew the charge, and the trial did not proceed.

Nicholson was charged by RCMP with assault involving a female victim in connection with an incident on Sept. 15 at Green Road. He entered his not-guilty plea at a court appearance on Oct. 17. 

Remanded to jail

Joshua Adam Demerchant, 34, of Pembroke, appeared in provincial court in custody on Dec. 7 for a bail hearing and was remanded to jail. He returns to court in custody for plea on Jan. 2, 2024, at 9:30 a.m.

Demerchant was arrested on a warrant after he failed to appear in provincial court on Oct. 17 for plea. RCMP charged him with possession of stolen property (an ATV) and failing to stop for police in connection with an incident on July 12 near Hartland.  

On Dec. 5, Demerchant was also charged with two counts of breaching a release order stemming from incidents on Oct. 18 at Pembroke and on Dec. 4 in Woodstock.

Not guilty of impaired driving

Kaylea Jessika Spittle, 23, of Carlingford, appeared for trial in provincial court on Dec. 6 on an impaired driving charge. The crown did not call any evidence and Spittle received a directed verdict of not guilty.

RCMP charged Spittle following an incident on Nov. 20, 2021, near Greenfield. She made her first court appearance on Jan. 17.

Charges transferred to Edmundston court

Christian Mario Albert, 37, of Grand Falls, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on Dec. 11 for plea on charges laid by RCMP. All matters were transferred to Edmundston. 

Albert said he intended to plead guilty. The matter was adjourned until Feb. 6, 2024, at 11 a.m. to allow time for the files to be transferred.

Albert was charged with breaking into the Save Easy in Plaster Rock and breaching curfew following an incident on Sept. 10. He appeared in court in custody on Dec. 5 when the matter was adjourned to the new date at the request of his defence counsel. The court heard he was being held in custody on other matters in Edmundston.

Senior charged with sexual assault

Maurice Joseph Rossignol, 68, of no fixed address, will appear in provincial court on Jan. 9, 2024, at 9:30 a.m. for plea on a charge of sexual assault.

Woodstock Police charged Rossignol in connection with an incident on Aug. 30 in Woodstock. He was scheduled for plea on Dec. 12 when the matter was adjourned to the new date at the request of his defence counsel.

In custody on multiple charges

Curtis Brent Hatheway, 43, of Woodstock, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on Dec. 12 for monitoring about his upcoming trials. 

Hatheway was denied bail. He pleaded not guilty to all charges laid against him by Woodstock Police. Trial dates were set for Jan. 15, 2024, at 9:30 a.m. and Jan. 26, 2024, at 9:30 a.m. On Tuesday, the court heard Hatheway had legal counsel to proceed.

Woodstock Police charged Hatheway with assaulting a female victim, assault by choking, uttering threats and breach of a release order for an incident on Sept. 25 in Woodstock. The court heard he is also facing other separate charges in Moncton.

Hatheway appeared in provincial court in custody by video on July 6 for a bail hearing. He was released with conditions, including house arrest and wearing an electronic monitoring device attached to his ankle. He was ordered to have no contact with the complainant and to attend court as required but was later brought back into custody.

Woodstock Police also charged Hatheway with assault involving a female victim, breach of probation, and breach of a release order stemming from an incident on June 22 in Woodstock. 

He was also charged by Woodstock Police with assault with a weapon (a shovel), assault involving a female victim, breach of a release order, and breach of probation following another incident on May 9 in Woodstock. Another charge of breach of curfew was also laid for an incident on May 17.

Facing new charge

Ashley Dawn Giberson, 33, of Woodstock, appeared in provincial court on Dec. 12 via teleconference to answer a charge laid by Woodstock Police. The matter was adjourned for plea until Jan. 2, 2024, at 9:30 a.m.

Giberson was charged with breach of a release order by failing to follow a curfew between Sept. 1 and Nov. 9 in Woodstock. 

Giberson also appeared in court in custody in December and was released with conditions. RCMP charged her following an incident on Sept. 30, 2022, at the Cozy Cabins in Lower Woodstock. 

Florenceville-Bristol man facing assault charge

Troy Keenan, 50, of Florenceville-Bristol, will appear in provincial court on Jan. 2, 2024, at 9:30 a.m. for a plea on an assault charge. He appeared in court on Dec. 12 when the matter was adjourned to the new date.

RCMP charged Keenan with assaulting another man while threatening to use a weapon (a knife) in connection with an incident on July 1 at Florenceville-Bristol. 

Arrested and released

Tanya Tribe, 43, of Greenfield, appeared in provincial court in custody on Dec. 12 for monitoring about her trial. Sheriffs arrested her on a warrant when she arrived at the courthouse. 

Tribe is scheduled to appear for trial on Jan. 17, 2024, at 9:30 a.m. after pleading not guilty to three charges laid by RCMP. 

She was charged with two counts of criminal harassment in connection with incidents between Aug. 10 and Aug. 12, 2022, in Windsor, and on Sept. 12, 2022, in Florenceville-Bristol, and one count of uttering threats for another incident between Aug. 10 and Aug. 12, 2022, in Windsor. 

Returning to court for plea

Maxwell Giberson, 29, of Florenceville-Bristol, appeared in provincial court on Dec. 12 to answer a charge laid by Woodstock Police. The matter was adjourned for plea until Jan. 2, 2024, at 9:30 a.m. at the request of his defence counsel.

Giberson appeared in provincial court in custody on Oct. 24 and was released with conditions. He was arrested on a warrant for failing to appear in court on Oct. 5. He turned himself in to the sheriff

 at the Woodstock courthouse. Woodstock Police charged him with breach of probation. 

He was ordered to have no contact with the complainants without the authorization of Social Development and to attend court as required.

Back in custody on new charges

Jonathon Daniel Stockford, 35, of Hartland, appeared in provincial court in custody on Dec. 7 to answer new charges laid by RCMP. 

He was scheduled for sentencing after changing his plea to guilty on other charges laid by RCMP and Woodstock Police when new charges were laid. All matters were adjourned until Dec. 15 at 9:30 a.m. 

Stockford waived his bail until later and will enter his plea on the new charges at his next court appearance on Dec. 15 at 9:30 a.m. A date for his bail hearing may also be scheduled at that time.

He was charged with theft of fuel from an Esso station in Florenceville-Bristol, breaking into the Sticks and Stones Storage facility on Burnham Road, theft of tires and rims, possession of stolen property, and mischief causing property damage to the storage facility following an incident on Nov. 14.  

The court heard more charges are being transferred from Saint John and Fredericton. Stockford intends to plead guilty to those charges at this next court appearance.

Stockford appeared in court in custody on Sept. 14 and pleaded guilty to two counts of breaching a release order and committing mischief by damaging an ankle bracelet for an incident on March 28 at Hartland. He was later released with conditions.

He also pleaded guilty to possession of stolen property (a motorcycle), breach of probation, and breaching his curfew for an incident on Oct. 12, 2022, in Woodstock; and guilty to theft, stemming from a separate incident on July 4, 2022, at the Atlantic Superstore in Woodstock.

Stockford was scheduled to appear in provincial court for plea in November but failed to appear after being arrested on other charges in Fredericton and Saint John. He had been in custody since April. 

Awaiting plea following lockdown at Tobique Valley High School

David Fleming, 18, of Plaster Rock, appeared in provincial court on Dec. 12 to answer charges related to a lockdown at Tobique Valley High School. The matter was adjourned for plea until Jan. 9, 2024, at 9:30 a.m.

Fleming appeared in court in custody following the incident and was released with conditions. RCMP charged him with three counts of uttering threats against three female victims on Nov. 2 at Plaster Rock.

As part of his release, Associate Chief Judge Brian C. McLean ordered him to stay away from Tobique Valley High School and the residences of the three complainants. He must have no contact with any of the complainants and cannot have firearms or weapons in his possession. 

Woodstock man to stand trial

Clifford Joseph Lozier, 61, of Woodstock, appeared in provincial court on Dec. 12 to answer one charge laid by Woodstock Police.

Lozier was charged with uttering threats against another man following an incident on June 4 in Woodstock. He pleaded not guilty, and a trial date was set for Sept. 23, 2024, at 9:30 a.m.

Trial set for Woodstock woman 

Krista Lynn Turner, 43, of Woodstock, appeared in provincial court on Dec. 12 to answer two new charges laid by Woodstock Police. She pleaded not guilty, and a trial date was set for Oct. 2, 2024, at 1:30 p.m.

Turner appeared in provincial court in custody by video on Nov. 3. She was charged with assault and breach of a release order following an incident on Nov. 2 in Woodstock. She was released with conditions. Turner was ordered to stay away from a Grover Street residence and must have no contact with the male complainant.

She will also appear for trial in provincial court on April 8, 2024, at 9:30 a.m. after pleading not guilty to two other charges laid by Woodstock Police. She entered her plea at a court appearance on June 13.

Turner was charged with assault with a weapon (shards of glass) and breach of an undertaking concerning incidents on April 29 and April 30 in Woodstock. She was ordered to report to the police weekly, attend court, stay away from a Grover Street residence, and have no contact with the complainant. 

Turner appeared in provincial court in custody by video on May 4 for a bail hearing and was released with conditions. She was later taken back into custody. On Tuesday, the court heard Turner was moving to Ontario to be with her family.

Diverted to alternative measures

Shelby Paul, 28, of Neqotkuk (Tobique First Nation), appeared in provincial court on Dec. 12 to answer a mischief charge. The matter was moved to the alternative measures program with the consent of the crown.

Paul was charged by RCMP with mischief causing property damage to a door at the tribal council office at Neqotkuk on Aug. 23. She has until March 12 to complete the program.

Perth-Andover man to stand trial

Joseph Martin, 37, of Perth-Andover, appeared in provincial court on Dec. 12 for monitoring about his upcoming trial. 

Martin pleaded not guilty to a series of charges laid by RCMP. His trial date was set for May 6, 2024, at 1:30 p.m. On Tuesday, he told the court he had still not secured legal counsel.

Martin also appeared in provincial court in custody on July 18 for a bail hearing and was released with conditions. He was charged by RCMP with assault with a weapon (a baseball bat) involving a female victim, uttering threats, and committing mischief causing property damage in connection with a July 18 incident at Perth-Andover. He was ordered to have no contact with the complainant and must report to the police weekly. Martin was also ordered to have no firearms in his possession.

Released from custody to await plea

Joshua Desroches, 19, of Woodstock, will appear in provincial court on Jan. 2, 2024, at 9:30 a.m. for plea on one charge laid by RCMP. 

Desroches was charged with breach of an undertaking by violating a no-contact order stemming from an incident on Sept. 25 near Woodstock. He was arrested and later released from custody with conditions. He appeared in court on Dec. 12 when the matter was adjourned to the new date.

Sentencing set for assault

Cassidy Guest of Perth Andover will appear for sentencing in provincial court on Feb. 20, 2024, at 1:30 p.m. after pleading guilty to assault. 

He was scheduled for sentencing on Dec. 12 when the matter was adjourned to the new date at the request of his defence counsel. The court heard Guest was working outside the province but would be returning in February to deal with other matters in Edmundston.

Guest was charged by RCMP with assault causing bodily harm to another man following an incident on June 21, 2022, at Perth Andover. A warrant is being held on file until his next court appearance.

Woodstock man awaiting trial

Jace Maddox Anderson, 18, of Woodstock, appeared in provincial court on Dec. 12 for monitoring about his upcoming trial. He returns to court on Dec. 19 at 9:30 a.m. to confirm he has secured legal counsel to proceed. 

Woodstock Police charged Anderson with assault and uttering threats in connection with an incident at a Woodstock apartment on May 25. He pleaded not guilty, and his trial date was set for July 4, 2024, at 9:30 a.m. 

Anderson also faces a new charge of failing to appear in court on June 29. He will enter a plea at his next court appearance.

Trials scheduled on trafficking, extortion charges 

Nathan Leon Godin, 29, of Woodstock, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on Dec. 11 for monitoring about his trials coming up in January. He pleaded not guilty to multiple charges laid by RCMP. 

Trial dates were set for Jan. 3-5, 2024, at 9:30 a.m., Jan. 8, 2024, at 9:30 a.m., and Jan. 12, 2024, at 9:30 a.m. 

Godin was denied bail in July. RCMP charged him with drug trafficking, extortion, and firearm offences. 

Godin appeared in provincial court in custody by video on June 22 after being arrested on a warrant for failing to appear in court. He was charged with possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking, resisting arrest, possession of a prohibited weapon with ready ammunition, being an occupant of a vehicle knowing it carried a firearm (a sawed-off shotgun), possession of a weapon dangerous to the public peace, improper storage of a firearm, and breach of a release order in connection with an incident on June 21 at Wotstak (Woodstock) First Nation.

Godin was also charged with making threats to obtain money, possession of a weapon (a baton) for the purpose of committing an offence, committing mischief causing property damage to a window, and assaulting another man with a weapon (a baton), following an incident on June 20 at Wotstak. He was also charged with failing to appear in court on June 20. At that time, the court heard he owed a $2,000 fine, and a warrant of committal was pending.

Godin was also charged by RCMP with driving while suspended, possession of a firearm without a licence, and being an occupant of a vehicle, knowing it carried a firearm following an incident on May 1 at Wotstak.

He appeared in court in custody by video on April 5 and was released with conditions. He was charged with possession of methamphetamine for the purpose of trafficking, flight from police, and possession of stolen licence plates for another incident on March 22 at Wotstak, possession of methamphetamine on April 2 near Woodstock, two counts of breaching a release order by failing to follow a curfew on March 31 and April 1 at Woodstock; and breaching an order to abstain from non-prescription drugs on April 2 at Woodstock. 

Neqotkuk man has new charges

Jacob Perley, 32, of Neqotkuk (Tobique First Nation), appeared in provincial court on Dec. 12 to answer two new charges laid by RCMP. 

Perley was charged with possessing forged documents (cheques) and defrauding the band office of over $5,000 between June 13 and Oct. 6 at Neqotkuk. H returns to court for plea on Jan. 9, 2024, at 9:30 a.m.

He is also scheduled for sentencing in provincial court on Dec. 19 at 1:30 p.m. after changing his plea to guilty on two charges laid by RCMP. 

Perley was charged by RCMP with breach of a release order, breaking and entering a dwelling house, possessing a weapon dangerous to public peace, assault with a weapon, and using an imitation firearm in connection with a Dec. 16, 2021 incident in the community. 

He pleaded guilty to the breach and possession of a weapon dangerous to the public peace. The crown will withdraw the remaining charges.

Perley also appeared in provincial court on Sept. 19 for monitoring about his upcoming trial on drug trafficking charges. His trial dates were moved to Dec. 14 and Dec. 20 at 9:30 a.m. at the request of his defence counsel.

Perley was charged with possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking, production of cocaine, unlawful possession of ketamine (a date rape drug) for the purpose of trafficking, possession of methamphetamine, obstruction, and breach of an undertaking in connection with an incident on Aug. 26, 2022, at Neqotkuk. 

In custody awaiting plea

Christopher Elliott, 33, of Weaver, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on Dec. 12 to answer a series of charges laid by RCMP. He waived his bail until later and returns to court for plea on Dec. 21 at 9:30 a.m.

Elliott appeared in court in custody via teleconference on Oct. 24 and was remanded to jail to await a bail hearing. He faced new fraud charges and possession of stolen property (a debit card) concerning an incident on July 18 at Plaster Rock.

Elliott was also charged with resisting arrest and possession of ammunition while prohibited for an incident on Oct. 23. He was also charged with failing to appear in court for his trial in Woodstock on Aug. 23. 

Elliott pleaded not guilty to firearm charges on April 18, and his trial date was set. He was charged with possessing a prohibited weapon without a licence concerning an incident on November 4, 2020, at Gladwyn. He was also charged under the Fish and Wildlife Act with having a loaded firearm in a vehicle, possession of a firearm without a licence, and hunting without a licence on Nov. 4, 2020.

Elliott and Amber Holt, 32, of Bluebell, are jointly charged by RCMP with possession of a firearm without a licence (.22 Magnum rifle) and careless use of a gun for another incident on June 22, 2022, in Weaver. Elliott was also charged with possession of a firearm while prohibited from having it in connection with the same incident in Weaver. Holt is currently in custody, awaiting sentencing on numerous charges.

Arrest warrant issued

The court issued an arrest warrant for Kevin Coutts, 65, of Lower Kintore, after he failed to appear in court on Dec. 12 for monitoring about his trial. The court heard Coutts is currently in Ontario.

He was scheduled for trial in provincial court on May 30, 2024, at 9:30 a.m. after pleading not guilty to an assault charge.

RCMP charged Coutts with assault involving a female victim following an incident on June 10 near Kintore. He made his first court appearance on July 25.

The post Woodstock Provincial Court: Woman remanded until bail hearing; Greenfield man back in custody first appeared on River Valley Sun.

Robert Burke passed through life quietly, says his friend Caroline Burhoe. After his death in a bike collision, she says, she just wants to do 'justice' to him.

The Higgs government has won final approval for legislation that will force five public-sector employee groups into a shared-risk pension system, a setback for the Canadian Union of Public Employees but a major win for Premier Blaine Higgs.

Smith Dance Academy raises $2,800 for Hartland child battling health issues

The young dancers of Smith’s Dance Academy care about dancing, but they care about many things, including those in their community who need support.

On Friday, Dec. 8, Smith Dance Academy took to the stage at McCain Community Theatre at Woodstock High School as part of the SDA Cares Performance Fundraiser.

In addition to showcasing their skills on stage and invoking the holiday spirit, the young dancers raised more than $2,800 to help support a five-year-old Hartland boy’s battle with brain tumours.

The academy directed donations collected as admission to the dance recital to the medical care of Albert, the son of Ben and Alyssa Wiseman.

Smith Dance Academy Director Amanda Boone said the funds would help the family’s travel and other costs as Albert continues treatment at the IWK Children’s Hospital in Halifax.

The post Young dancers show they care first appeared on River Valley Sun.

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Police have released new details on a “significant bust” arising from the execution of four search warrants in two locations in Fredericton late last month.

As the Fredericton Independent reported previously, Jason Mollins, 39, of Emmerson Street in Fredericton, was arrested Nov. 30 and charged with a long list of alleged offences.

Among them are possession of methamphetamines, cocaine, hydromorphone and fentanyl, all for the purpose of trafficking, possession of a 9-mm handgun in violation of a court-ordered firearms prohibition; and numerous counts of possession of stolen property.

The Crown objected to his release, and after a bail hearing held last week, he was remanded pending the outcome of the case against him.

Evidence presented at that bail hearing and the judge’s reasons for denying bail are subject to a publication ban until the case against Mollins concludes.

He’s due back in court Dec. 20 to elect mode of trial on the indictable charges and to enter pleas.

The Fredericton Police Force, in a news release issued Tuesday, revealed additional details about the case.

It said Mollins’ arrest arose as a result of four search warrants executed at two different locations in Fredericton on Nov. 30.

The city police force’s street and drug-crimes team led those searches, the release said, and that team was aided by the police force’s emergency response team; integrated enforcement units from Fredericton, Woodstock and Miramichi; RCMP Police Dog Services; and the Department of Justice and Public Safety’s K-9 unit.

“The efforts were the result of an investigation over the past several months and represents a significant bust for the Fredericton area,” the release stated.

“This seizure and arrest will have a direct impact on the drugs available on the streets, and the criminal activity associated to the industry.”

It said officers seized what’s believed to be the following drugs in the detailed quantities:

• 822 grams of fentanyl,

• 241 grams of cocaine,

• 494 grams of methamphetamine,

• 468 suspected hydromorphone pills

• and 24 grams of hashish.

The searches also led to the seizure of numerous weapons, namely a 9-millimetre handgun; a 12-gauge shotgun, two 22-calibre rifles, three pellet guns, a crossbow and various types of ammunition.

The release also noted that two motor-vehicles and other stolen property were recovered: a 2017 Jaguar XE, a 2023 Dodge Ram 1500, three snowblowers, a woodchipper, a generator and a TYM tractor with snowblower.

The latter item had been reported to police as stolen, the force reported, and it had been painted to cover its original colour.

“The total value of the recovered items is approximately $58,000,” the release said.

Don MacPherson can be contacted at [email protected].

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COVID-19 has killed two more New Brunswickers, hospitalized two children, and sent a growing number of people to intensive care, while flu cases and hospitalizations continue to climb, data released by the province Tuesday shows.

Woodstock-area RCMP officer Osama Ibrahim, 29, was found guilty of assault, choking during an assault, carrying, using or threatening to use a weapon during an assault, and breach of trust. He was found not guilty of sexual assault. 

The New Brunswick government says an essential services law is constitutional and that a lawsuit by nursing home workers challenging it is premature.

Six houses of worship participate in community’s innovative Open House Tour of Churches

Six historic Woodstock churches opened their doors Sunday afternoon, Dec. 10, welcoming visitors, offering tours, providing Christmas music and serving food and drinks as part of the innovative Open House Tour of Churches.

Between 2 and 5 p.m., the six churches — Woodstock Baptist Church, Bethel Pentecostal Assembly, St. James United Church, St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church, St. Luke’s Anglican Church and St. Gertrude’s Catholic Church — welcomed guests.

Rev. Ron Ecker, pastor of Bethel Pentecostal Assembly and chair of the local ministerial association, said the tour offered an excellent opportunity for the public to see inside the many churches in the community.

He said he loved the idea when representatives from St. Paul’s Presbyterian suggested it.

Ecker, along with church staff and congregation members, greeted visitors, offered tours and explained the history of the Pentecostal church, which opened in the 1960s.

He pointed to the many flags displayed on the church’s sanctuary walls, welcoming the several nationalities among Bethel Assembly’s diverse congregations, including many Filipino church members.

The new and modern Woodstock Baptist Church welcomed visitors and church members throughout the afternoon tour. It closed with the second of two performances on the day of its “Brand New Hallelujah,” a Christmas Cantata.

Those entering the St. James United Church’s sanctuary during the open tour immediately heard the recorded music of former organist Roberta White.

Church representatives encouraged visitors to tour the building, including the downstairs, to view the murals depicting Bible stories and the touching display of memorial angels.

St. Paul’s Presbyterian offered music throughout the tour hours, starting with the handbell choir at 2 p.m., followed by popular local pianist J. P. Nadeau at 3 p.m.

Local veterinarian and church organist Dr. Nolan Golding brought St. Paul’s historic pipe organ, dating back to 1906, to life during the final hour of the open house.

Rick Wilson and Ardith MacDonald were among those on hand to greet visitors to St. Luke’s Anglican Church to see its Christmas decor.

The Mitten Tree sat at the heart of the Christmas display. In partnership with the Salvation Army, the church collects mittens on the tree and toys around it to present to children throughout the community.

St. Gertrude’s Catholic Church offered live music through Sunday afternoon’s open house, including the Knowlesville Musicians, who provided music and song, including piano, fiddle, and a string assemble.

Woodstock businessman and musician John Thompson offered harp music, while the Hansons, Mary, Sandra and Thomas entertained with piano, voice and trumpet, respectively.

The post Woodstock churches open their doors to Christmas visitors first appeared on River Valley Sun.

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A Fredericton man awaiting sentencing for an allegation he had methamphetamines for trafficking now finds himself in custody, accused of breaching the terms of his release.

Lawrence (Larry) Steven Chippin, 62, of Dundonald Street, was convicted after trial in Fredericton provincial court this year for possession of meth for the purpose of trafficking.

He had been scheduled for a sentencing hearing for the drug-trafficking offence last month, but it was adjourned at that time because the court heard Chippin had new, pending charges.

His case was back in provincial court Monday, both to reschedule the sentencing hearing but also for his first appearance on the afore-mentioned new allegations.

Chippin now stands charged with breaching a curfew condition and requirement to reside at a Dundonald Street apartment on three occasions: Feb. 2, Oct. 4 and Nov. 25.

He’s also now charged with simple possession of crystal meth, also on Oct. 4.

Chippin appeared by telephone in Fredericton provincial court Monday from the city police station cellblock.

The Crown objected to his release, and Judge Natalie LeBlanc remanded him pending a bail hearing, which she set for Thursday.

She also scheduled his new sentencing date for Jan. 8.

During his appearance in court, Chippin seemed at a loss as to why he’d been arrested again.

He said he’s been living at a Kingsley Road residence for some time now, having moved from the Dundonald Street location a while ago.

LeBlanc told him that for a defendant to stray from any condition of a release order, he or she would first have to apply to the court to change it.

Meth operation in motel room

Chippin’s conviction for meth possession for trafficking purposes stemmed from a Fredericton Police Force investigation focusing on activity at the motel room in which he was living two years ago.

That probe, court heard, culminated in officers executing a search warrant at Room 221 at the Days Inn on Prospect Street on July 30, 2021.

Evidence at trial showed that police found meth in crystal and pill form in plain sight in the motel room, as well as other items associated with drug trafficking, such as dime baggies, scoresheets and digital scales.

Officers also found a laptop computer on which there were Facebook Messenger conversations on Chippin’s account through which drug transactions were conducted. 

The defendant testified the drugs all belonged to Eddie Sivret Jr., who paid some of the cost of the motel room for his trafficking activity. He said he turned a blind eye to what Sivret was doing, and also claimed Sivret had used his laptop and Facebook account.

Sivret was unavailable as a witness because he died in 2021, after the motel raid and Chippin’s arrest.

Judge Cameron Gunn, in rendering his decision on the trial, said even if he believed Chippin - which he didn’t - the defendant’s own account shows he was involved in trafficking activity and had both constructive and joint possession of the drugs.

"The evidence of knowledge here is simply overwhelming," Gunn said in his decision.

In addition to the trafficking offence, Chippin is set to be sentenced in January for other crimes as well: personal possession of cocaine and meth in Fredericton on May 19, 2021; and a violation of a police undertaking on July 5, 2021, requiring him to reside at a McGee Street home in Lincoln and to observe a curfew there.

Don MacPherson can be contacted at [email protected].

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Greg Hall has seen his fair share of high winds and tropical storms. But the results of Monday’s wind and rain storm still came as a surprise to him.

Saint John councillors expressed frustration again Monday night with the city's inability to spread the property tax burden around so residential property owners don't carry most of it.

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A Fredericton woman accused of a serious cocaine-trafficking charge needs a new lawyer, as her previous counsel had to be removed from the record Monday due to a potential conflict.

Shelley Darlene Gosman, 37, of Doone Street, was scheduled to elect mode of trial and enter pleas Monday on a handful of charges.

She’s accused of possessing cocaine for the purpose of trafficking and possessing cash believed to be the proceeds of crime June 16.

Gosman also faces lesser June 13 charges of uttering a threat to Caitlyn Bault-Gallant to damage Budget Rent a Car property and damaging a 2023 Dodge Ram 1500 belonging to the car-rental business.

When Fredericton provincial court Judge Natalie LeBlanc called Gosman’s case Monday morning, the defendant wasn’t present, but her defence counsel - Legal Aid New Brunswick staff lawyer Angèle Normand - was.

However, Normand told court she was unable to continue as Gosman’s counsel, noting that a potential conflict of interest within her office had been identified.

She asked to be removed as counsel of record, noting that the legal aid commission would arrange for a new lawyer to be assigned to the defendant’s case.

LeBlanc granted Normand’s motion for removal.

Meanwhile, in light of Gosman’s non-attendance in court Monday, prosecutor Gwynne Hearn asked for a warrant to be issued for her arrest, and the judge obliged on that request as well.

A short time later, though, as the court continued with the morning pleas, Gosman arrived at the courtroom, after Normand had left.

When LeBlanc asked her why she was late, Gosman answered, “It took longer to walk here than I thought.”

The judge emphasized the importance of arriving to court on time, or in the alternative, to contact the court if one expects to be late. LeBlanc said an arrest warrant was ordered, but she vacated it given Gosman’s appearance, tardy as it was.

The court also explained to Gosman that Normand had been removed as her defence counsel. LeBlanc told her she needed to contact Legal Aid New Brunswick to learn when a new lawyer would be appointed and who that would be.

The judge adjourned the case to Jan. 2 to allow that process to unfold.

Don MacPherson can be contacted at [email protected].

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An 88-unit townhouse development proposed for Fredericton's north side fell just short of the city council votes it needed Monday night to go ahead.

Businesses and other groups in Miramichi are ending a court challenge against the opening of an emergency homeless shelter near the city's waterfront.

A devotional to spiritual lust, a cracking open and a manifestation, DenMother’s latest single marks a new beginning.   Matt Carter  Sabarah Pilon is constantly in motion. Known to many as…

The post DenMother shares new single, Holy appeared first on Grid City Magazine.

New Brunswick's official languages commissioner took aim at the Higgs government Monday for failing to "make real progress" toward the equality of the two official language communities with the revision of the Official Languages Act.

Enjoy a look at some beautiful photos of New Brunswick, submitted by you. 

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The Fredericton Police force is investigating a hit-and-run incident from last month, and it’s turning to the public for help in identifying the woman who was at the wheel.

The police force issued an alert through social media Monday morning reporting it was investigating an incident in which a pedestrian was struck at the intersection of George and York streets at about 6:50 p.m. Nov. 16.

“While walking his dog, a male was struck in the crosswalk by a vehicle that did not stop and proceeded through the red light,” the force stated. 

“The vehicle is described as a white Honda or Hyundai sedan.”

The driver and sole occupant of the car was described as a Caucasian woman between 40 and 60 years of age with light brown/blonde hair, it said.

“The pedestrian sustained minor injuries and the dog was uninjured,” police spokesperson Megan Barker told the Fredericton Independent on Monday.

Witnesses to the incident or those who might have video footage of it are urged to contact the Fredericton Police Force by calling 506-460-2300 or emailing [email protected].

Those wishing to provide information anonymously can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

Tipsters should cite police file no. 23-29439.

Don MacPherson can be contacted at [email protected].

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A Fredericton man is due back in court early in the new year to answer to allegations of illegal possession of a handgun and impaired driving.

Brian Christopher Paul, 44, of Maliseet Drive, made his first appearance in Fredericton provincial court Monday on numerous charges, most stemming from allegations about a handgun.

He’s accused by the Fredericton Police Force of possessing a 9-mm SCCY CX-2 handgun  while prohibited from having firearms by a court order; possessing the handgun knowing he didn’t have a licence or registration certificate for it; occupying a motor vehicle while knowing that firearm was in there; possessing that loaded, prohibited handgun without authorization; and impaired driving.

The charges allege Oct. 4 events in Fredericton.

Paul noted he was seeking time to retain legal counsel, and Judge Natalie LeBlanc set the matter over to Jan. 2 for pleas.

Don MacPherson can be contacted at [email protected].

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