Category: WFP

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North Huron WFP Wingham

North Huron Put on Formal Notice Over Sidewalk Obstructions and By-law Enforcement Freeze

(NORTH HURON, ON) — The Township of North Huron has now been formally placed on written notice over ongoing sidewalk obstructions, alleged interference with by-law enforcement, and growing public safety concerns linked to winter snow-clearing operations.

A detailed letter was sent this week to the Township Clerk, Chief Administrative Officer, Reeve, and members of Council outlining concerns that road snow is being dumped onto municipal sidewalks, making them impassable and forcing pedestrians into live traffic lanes.

The letter cites North Huron’s own bylaws, snow-removal policies, and provincial law, and requests written clarification on whether Township bylaws are being selectively unenforced when the Township itself is the source of the violation.

Snow Piles Blocking Sidewalks

Residents say snow pushed from roadways has repeatedly been piled onto sidewalks, leaving no safe pedestrian route and effectively eliminating the sidewalk altogether.

“This isn’t just inconvenient — it’s dangerous,” the notice states, warning that blocked sidewalks force pedestrians, including seniors and people with mobility challenges, into the roadway.

By-law Enforcement Allegedly Restricted

According to statements documented in the notice, By-law Enforcement Officers allegedly advised that they are not permitted to enforce bylaws on municipal property, and that they lack clear job descriptions identifying who has authority to order non-enforcement when Township operations are involved.

If accurate, the letter argues this would represent a serious governance failure, as duly enacted bylaws would not be applied equally.

Council Question Left Unanswered

The issue was raised publicly at a recent council meeting, where the Reeve was asked directly whether by-law officers are allowed to enforce bylaws on Township-owned property, including sidewalks.

No answer was provided.

The written notice now demands a response, moving the issue from council floor discussions into a formal record.

Legal Duties Highlighted

The correspondence references Section 44 of Ontario’s Municipal Act, which requires municipalities to keep highways — including sidewalks — in a reasonable state of repair.

It also cites Ontario Court of Appeal decisions confirming that responsibility for snow and ice on public sidewalks rests with the municipality, and that prolonged failure to address dangerous sidewalk conditions can rise to the level of gross negligence.

North Huron’s own Clean Yards and snow-obstruction bylaws prohibit depositing snow in a way that blocks sidewalks, and authorize enforcement by by-law officers.

Records Preservation Requested

The letter specifically requests that the Township preserve all records related to:

  • winter sidewalk maintenance,
  • directions given to staff about snow placement,
  • enforcement or non-enforcement decisions, and
  • internal discussions acknowledging the safety risks.

This step is commonly taken ahead of formal Freedom of Information requests or third-party oversight complaints.

Request for Written Answers

The notice asks the Township to respond before the next council meeting on 15 December and provide written clarification on:

  • whether bylaws apply to Township-owned property,
  • whether any staff or officials have directed by-law officers not to enforce them,
  • who has the authority to issue such directions, and
  • what steps will be taken immediately to restore safe, accessible sidewalks.

Oversight May Follow

Observers note that once a municipality has been put on written notice of a safety hazard, continued inaction can significantly increase legal exposure.

Should the Township fail to respond or correct the issue, the matter could advance to Freedom of Information requests, Integrity Commissioner complaints, or review by the Ontario Ombudsman.

As of publication, North Huron has not publicly responded.

Categories
North Huron WFP Wingham

Wingham Business “Man” Goes On Rampage Pre-Parade – Arrest/Charges Likely #ImmoralActs #StandYourGround #DefendYourNeighbours 

(Wingham, North Huron) On Saturday, shortly before the Wingham Christmas Parade, a local business owner engaged in highly concerning and aggressive behaviour in downtown Wingham.

Witnesses report that the man was intentionally shovelling snow against a neighbour’s business doorway, completely blocking the door. When confronted about the dangerous and unlawful act (which could have prevented escape in an emergency), the individual reportedly continued shovelling, then raised his shovel in a threatening manner toward the person confronting him, screaming “What’s it to you!”

After the confrontation, the man crossed the street against the pedestrian signals (in full view of families and children waiting for the parade), while shouting profanities and repeatedly making obscene gestures. He then reportedly went to a nearby restaurant in the heart of Wingham and directed the same obscene gesture toward patrons inside.

The individual is said to be a “prominent” and long-standing member of the notorious Wingham Business Improvement Association (WBIA).

Blocking a fire exit or emergency exit with snow is a violation of the Ontario Fire Code and potentially the Criminal Code (mischief/endangering life). Threatening someone with a shovel can constitute assault with a weapon.

This type of aggressive, anti-social behaviour – especially in front of children and during a community holiday event – is completely unacceptable and has no place in Wingham or any Canadian community.

The victims are considering releasing video and police involvement if the “man” does not remove the snow he illegally dumped by the open of business on Monday.

Categories
North Huron WFP Wingham

Service Cuts, Tax Pressure Spark Public Showdown Monday

(Wingham, North Huron) Residents across North Huron are being urged to pack the council chambers Monday night as anger mounts over looming service changes, property-tax pressure, and a growing list of unanswered questions at Town Hall.

The Corporation of North Huron is reviewing changes to garbage and recycling pickup, including potential reductions. Details remain unclear, prompting calls for residents to contact their council representatives immediately or attend the in-person council meeting Monday, with doors opening around 5:30 p.m. for a 6:00 p.m. start.

Community frustration has intensified alongside serious allegations circulating publicly involving municipal leadership and enforcement practices. Reeve Paul Heffer is facing allegations that include child endangerment and breach of trust. Separately, bylaw enforcement has been accused by members of the public of dereliction of duty, trespass, harassment, and conspiracy to extort or steal. All allegations remain unproven, and those named have not responded publicly as of publication. This outlet will update the story if statements are provided.

Tensions have also been compounded by infrastructure concerns. Residents point to the death of at least one Wingham resident following a slip and fall on allegedly unmaintained sidewalks, raising alarms about public safety, isolation, and the real-world consequences of perceived neglect.

With taxes up and services under review, locals say the meeting is a critical moment to demand clarity and accountability.

“If you’re paying for services, you deserve them—equally, safely, and with respect,” one resident said ahead of the meeting.

Public encouraged to attend:
Residents are strongly advised to arrive early Monday evening to ask questions before the meeting begins, press for specifics on service levels, and seek answers on enforcement practices and public safety.

Bottom line: Services residents pay for are on the chopping block—and patience is running out. Monday night’s meeting may be the line in the sand.

North Huron Council Contact Info:
Paul Heffer
280 Manor Road
(519) 357-3594
[email protected] 
Mitch Wright
63 Bristol Terrace
(519) 357-9497
[email protected] 
Lonnie Whitfield
94 John St. West
(226) 222-2585 
[email protected] 
Anita van Hittersum
84012 Hoover Line
(519) 523-4492 
[email protected]
Chris Palmer
39331 Belfast Road
(519) 357-3385 
[email protected] 
Kevin Fascist  Falconer
303 King Street
(519) 955-0301 
[email protected]
Ric McBurney
202 Thuell St, Blyth
(519) 441-7415 
[email protected]

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Breaking News Central Huron Huron North Huron South Huron WFP Wingham

$113 Million Stolen From Huron Residents Every Year, New Analysis Reveals – $10 Million From North Huron Alone!

(Wingham, North Huron) A new analysis of Huron OPP fraud data reveals a staggering truth: North Huron residents are quietly being drained of nearly $10 million a year by scammers, with almost all cases going unreported.

Between August 30 and October 31, 2025, the Huron OPP responded to nine fraud cases totalling $943,100 in confirmed losses. Because only an estimated 5% of fraud victims ever report, the real number is far higher — about $113 million county-wide per year.

How much of that is hitting North Huron?

North Huron represents roughly 8.5% of the county’s population, meaning the township’s estimated share of the fraud epidemic is:

➡️ $9.4M–$9.6M per year stolen from local residents

That’s equivalent to:

  • $800,000 per month
  • $26,000 per day
  • $1,100 per hour

Who is being targeted?

Most victims are seniors between 64 and 85 years old, caught in sophisticated cryptocurrency, investment, and romance scams. Many lose their entire life savings.

Only 5% report — 95% stay silent

Stigma, embarrassment, and hopelessness prevent most victims from coming forward. That silence allows scammers to continue operating unchecked.

The hidden crisis

If current trends continue:

  • 1.8% of all residents will be scammed each year
  • 1 in 12 residents will be scammed within 5 years
  • 1 in 6 will be scammed within a decade

This is a crisis of both security and awareness.

Community Response Needed

North Huron has not established any coordinated anti-fraud strategy. There is no local campaign, senior-focused education program, or rapid-response task force.

Without action, the financial hemorrhage will only worsen.

North Huron Council Contact Info:
Paul Heffer
280 Manor Road
(519) 357-3594
[email protected] 
Mitch Wright
63 Bristol Terrace
(519) 357-9497
[email protected] 
Lonnie Whitfield
94 John St. West
(226) 222-2585 
[email protected] 
Anita van Hittersum
84012 Hoover Line
(519) 523-4492 
[email protected]
Chris Palmer
39331 Belfast Road
(519) 357-3385 
[email protected] 
Kevin Fascist  Falconer
303 King Street
(519) 955-0301 
[email protected]
Ric McBurney
202 Thuell St, Blyth
(519) 441-7415 
[email protected]

Categories
Breaking News WFP

Police Issue Stark Warning To Child & Wife Abusers As North Huron Tension Boils Over #DeathOfFear #SaveOurChildren #ReleaseTheFiles

(WINGHAM, North Huron, ON) – An unprecedented and chilling warning is being issued to child sex offenders and those who endanger children across the province: turn yourselves in, or run. Your safety can no longer be guaranteed.

The warning comes amid a powder-keg of public fury focused on the Municipality of North Huron, now being described by community leaders as “Wingham, where fear comes to die.” This slogan, has been adopted as a battle cry by a populace that has reached its breaking point.

A source within the Ontario Provincial Police, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the volatile nature of the situation, stated: “We are advising all known and suspected child sex offenders to seriously consider turning themselves in for protective custody. The general population is no longer a safe environment for you. The social contract has been broken.”

The message is not limited to police channels. Flyers and social media posts with the hashtags #DeathOfFear, #SaveOurChildren, and #ReleaseTheFiles are circulating widely. They contain a direct and terrifying instruction to abusers: “Those child and wife abusers that feel they will be targeted are advised to call 911 immediately, before the mob shows up at their door.”

The movement positions itself as a moral imperative for all Canadians. “Enough is enough,” one viral post reads. “How long will you sit idle while children and others are being exploited? If you can’t defend our community’s children, you are part of the problem and are just as guilty.”

The cultural moment is also being cited as a driving force. The hit country song “Wait In The Truck,” which depicts a vigilante confronting an abuser, is being described as a “rally cry” for true Canadians to defend the vulnerable.

The net is being cast wide, extending beyond individual abusers to those in positions of authority. A stark warning has been issued to local by-law enforcement officers: enforce the laws protecting children on your watch, or find your name on the same list as Paul Heffer.

The catalyst for the crisis appears to be the alleged actions/inaction of Paul Heffer, the head of the municipal corporation known as North Huron. Persistent, unverified rumors are swirling of a $1000 reward being offered privately for the arrest and conviction of Heffer on charges of child endangerment related to his official duties. While authorities have not confirmed the reward, they have not denied the palpable threat simmering beneath the surface of this community.

The message from a community pushed to the edge is clear: The era of silent suffering is over. The fear has shifted. It no longer resides with the victims, but with those who have preyed upon them. For child abusers in North Huron and beyond, the hunt is imminent, and the walls are closing in.

The advice from authorities to offenders remains: Your only safe option is to turn yourself in. Now.

Categories
Breaking News Weather WFP

Snow Alert For Wingham & Blyth, Up To 10cm Sunday

Special Weather Statement in effect for:

  • Wingham – Blyth – Northern Huron County

Accumulating snow likely on Sunday.

What: Snowfall amounts of 2 to 10 cm.

When: Beginning Sunday morning and continuing through Sunday evening.

Additional information: A low pressure system could bring snowfall to parts of southern Ontario on Sunday. Confidence remains low with respect to the strength and track of this weather system, and as such the areas affected and snowfall amounts may change.

Motorists should expect difficult winter driving conditions and adjust travel plans accordingly. Poor weather conditions may contribute to transportation delays. Installation of winter tires should be considered prior to Sunday.

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ftp OFP Smiths Falls WFP

OPP Caught Again — Officer Refuses to Enforce Trespass Act #TrainThePolice #FTP #FilmThePolice

(SMITHS FALLS, ON) – Once again, the Ontario Provincial Police have embarrassed themselves on video — this time, caught refusing to enforce Ontario’s own Trespass to Property Act and treating the complainant with hostility instead of professionalism.

This was not a split-second street encounter or a complex legal dispute. It was a basic matter of property rights — the kind of scenario every officer in Ontario should be able to handle blindfolded. Yet here we are again: another OPP officer who either doesn’t know the law or simply refuses to apply it.

Dereliction of Duty — or Ignorance of the Law?

The Trespass to Property Act is not obscure. It’s one of the simplest and most commonly applied laws in the province. It clearly states that property owners — or those in charge of a property — have the right to ask anyone to leave if they are engaging in prohibited conduct. Refusal to do so becomes trespassing, and it is the police’s duty to enforce that law.

Instead, the Smiths Falls officer in this latest video turned the law on its head — defending the trespasser and belittling the rightful complainant. That’s not just unprofessional; it’s a betrayal of the public trust. The badge is not a suggestion — it comes with the responsibility to know, understand, and apply the law. Ignorance is no excuse, especially when it leaves citizens defenseless on their own property.

Citizen “Journalists” Are Not Above the Law

Let’s be clear: so-called citizen journalists have rights — but not special rights. The moment they walk into a private business, their rights stop where the owner’s begin. The restaurant, store, or café controls that space. If the owner says filming is prohibited and the person refuses to stop or leave, that’s trespassing. Period. Children are taught this is high school, there is no excuse for not knowing “leave means leave”.

This “citizen journalist” in Smiths Falls wasn’t defending free speech — they were testing how much they could get away with. And thanks to an untrained or unwilling OPP officer, they got away with far too much. That person should face the same charges anyone else would under the Trespass Act.

Cameras Keep Everyone Honest

Ironically, it’s only because someone filmed the police that this failure came to light.
Filming police interactions is not just a right — it’s a public duty. Without the video, the officer’s dereliction of duty would have been swept under the rug. Recording protects both citizens and good officers from false claims — but when the footage reveals ignorance and arrogance from the uniformed side, it exposes a deeper rot: a police culture too comfortable with being wrong.

Training Isn’t Optional — It’s Urgent

This is not the first time OPP have had to issue a statement admitting one of their own “did not align with the provisions of the Trespass to Property Act.” And if this keeps happening, it won’t be the last unless leadership takes responsibility.

The people of Ontario deserve better than officers who shrug off the law.
If you wear the badge, you must know the law. If you don’t — resign, or be retrained until you do.

Accountability Must Start Now

The Ontario Provincial Police leadership can no longer hide behind hollow press statements and “internal reviews.” The people deserve visible, public accountability.

Here’s what needs to happen immediately:

  • Public Identification: The officer in question should be named, not shielded behind bureaucracy.
  • Disciplinary Review: A full review by the OPP Professional Standards Branch, with consequences made public.
  • Mandatory Retraining: Every officer in the province should receive refresher training on the Trespass to Property Act and basic property rights.
  • Public Apology: The OPP Commissioner should issue a formal apology to the complainant and to the citizens of Smiths Falls for this failure.

Until those steps are taken, the OPP’s credibility on “professionalism and respect” means nothing. The uniform represents authority — but it must also represent accountability.

 Editor’s Note

Video evidence of the Smiths Falls OPP incident is publicly available on social media platforms, including X (formerly Twitter). The OPP has acknowledged that the officer’s response “did not align with the provisions of the Trespass to Property Act” and stated that the matter is under internal review. The original incident has also been referred to the Canada Border Services Agency.

 Editorial Summary: Smiths Falls OPP at Tim Hortons

The video opens outside a Tim Hortons in Smiths Falls, where a visibly frustrated man — apparently the complainant — is speaking with an Ontario Provincial Police officer. The man explains that someone inside the restaurant was filming customers and staff without permission, and that staff had asked for police assistance to remove the person under the Trespass to Property Act.

From the very first seconds, the officer’s body language is dismissive — one hand on their hip, a condescending smirk forming as the complainant explains the situation. Instead of taking notes or clarifying the facts, the officer interrupts repeatedly, shifting posture and tone to one of irritation rather than inquiry.

The complainant’s voice is calm but firm. He tries to cite the property owner’s rights, referencing the Trespass to Property Act and emphasizing that filming was not permitted inside the restaurant. The officer, however, refuses to acknowledge the legal basis, replying with curt and patronizing remarks — effectively arguing the law with the citizen instead of enforcing it.

As the conversation continues, the officer becomes visibly impatient. They lean back, cross their arms, and even scoff at one point. When the complainant presses the point that the business had clearly asked for assistance removing the person filming, the officer responds with a sarcastic tone — implying that it’s “not a police matter” and suggesting that the complainant “deal with it yourself.”

The camera angle captures the tension clearly: the officer radiates disdain and authority without accountability, while the complainant stands powerless — effectively abandoned by the very agency sworn to uphold the law.

At one point, the officer waves dismissively toward the restaurant, muttering that the “person filming isn’t breaking any laws.” That statement — incorrect under the Trespass to Property Act — is delivered with the casual arrogance of someone who either doesn’t know or doesn’t care what the statute actually says.

The complainant tries to reason, citing that private property rules apply once inside the restaurant. The officer cuts him off mid-sentence and walks toward their cruiser, leaving the man standing there mid-conversation — the ultimate visual of dereliction and disrespect.

The clip ends abruptly, with the complainant’s voice audible, exasperated and disbelieving, as the officer drives away — refusing to enforce a law that even the OPP later admitted was mishandled.

Categories
Goderich Huron OFP WFP

Brak, Campbell, Cheyne, Grant, Daniels-Bobiwash, Morrison, Sharman, Elliott & Lovelace on Packed Goderich Criminal Docket

🏛 Goderich Court – Criminal Matters (Oct 3, 2025)

10:00 AM – Bail Phase / Hearings (Video unless noted)

  • Daymien Brak – Bail phase
  • Kyle Campbell – Bail phase
  • Aaron Cheyne – Multiple bail matters (3 separate case numbers)
  • Andrew Grant – Multiple bail matters (3 separate case numbers)
  • David Prouse – Bail phase
  • Christopher Rock – Bail phase
  • Michael Ross – Bail hearing / show cause (In person, Room EXAM, Line 104)

10:00 AM – Set Date for Trial (Video)

  • Amy Daniels-Bobiwash – Multiple matters (6 separate case numbers)
  • Kristopher Faber – Set date for trial
  • Robert Fehr – Multiple matters (2 case numbers)
  • R.M. (youth initials) – Multiple matters (4 case numbers)
  • Robert Morrison – Multiple matters (4 case numbers)
  • Kevin Sharman – Multiple matters (5 case numbers)

10:00 AM – Trials (In Person)

  • Lauren Campbell – Trial, Courtroom 2

11:00 AM – Pleas (In Person, Courtroom 2)

  • Stephanie Elliott – Multiple matters (5 case numbers), scheduled to take pleas

2:15 PM – Plea (In Person, Courtroom 2)

  • Jorden Lovelace – Scheduled to take plea

⚖️ Key Takeaways

  • Heavy docket at 10:00 AM – many bail phase hearings and set-date matters, largely by video.
  • Trials & pleas in Courtroom 2 – Lauren Campbell at 10:00 AM, Stephanie Elliott at 11:00 AM, and Jorden Lovelace at 2:15 PM.
  • Multiple repeat entries – several accused (Cheyne, Grant, Daniels-Bobiwash, Morrison, Sharman, Elliott) have multiple case files listed.
Categories
Courthouse Goderich Huron OFP WFP

Court Docket: Barron, Cheyne, Cormier, D., Earhart, Harris, Herrera-Chavez, K., Lovelace, Myatte, Palen, R., Roosemalen, Simonsen, Stone, Wilson Before Goderich Court Today

GODERICH, ON – A busy day is scheduled at the Goderich courthouse today with a full slate of criminal matters ranging from pleas and bail hearings to pre-trials and judgments.

Morning Sessions

The day opened at 9:00 a.m. with R. v C., C.J., set for judgment via videoconference in the Superior Court of Justice courtroom. Also at 9:00 a.m., Elijah MYATTE and Keagan SIMONSEN both appeared “to be spoken to” in separate matters.

At 10:00 a.m., multiple bail phase hearings were set for Christopher BARRON and Aaron CHEYNE, with Cheyne facing several separate case files. D.D. was scheduled at the same time to set a date for trial.

At 10:15 a.m., J.D. had two plea hearings scheduled.

By 11:00 a.m., B.N. R. appeared in the SCJ courtroom to enter a plea, while at 11:30 a.m. Leibniz HERRERA-CHAVEZ was also set for a plea. Two separate appearances were listed for Robert ROOSEMALEN, one by video and one in person, both “to be spoken to.” Daniel WILSON was also scheduled at 11:30 a.m. by video.

At 12:30 p.m., Jorden LOVELACE was scheduled for a plea appearance by video.

Afternoon Sessions

The afternoon begins at 2:00 p.m. with Donald EARHART v His Majesty the King, listed “to be spoken to” by video in the SCJ courtroom.

At 2:15 p.m., Mitchell HARRIS is scheduled for three separate plea hearings, all in person.

At 3:30 p.m., Daniel CORMIER and Sheri PALEN are set for a bail estreat hearing, with His Majesty the King in the Right of Ontario also listed on the case.

Finally, at 3:45 p.m., Brody STONE is scheduled for multiple plea hearings in person. The day wraps up at 4:00 p.m. with J.R. K. scheduled for a pre-trial appearance by video.

Overview

Today’s docket covers a wide spectrum of criminal court business in Goderich, with several defendants facing multiple files. Cases range from routine “to be spoken to” appearances to significant bail hearings and judgments.

Source: https://www.ontariocourtdates.ca/

Categories
Courthouse Goderich OFP WFP

Daniels-Bobiwash, Dayman, Demelo, Elliott, Fehr, Grant, Leachman, Lenting, McGrath, O’Brien, Poisson, Prouse, Rock, Vock: Packed Court Docket Today

(Goderich, ON) – The Goderich courthouse is bracing for a heavy morning session today, October 1, 2025, with more than a dozen names appearing on the criminal docket. Many of the matters scheduled include bail hearings, pre-trials, and trial date settings across a range of charges.

Multiple Bail Hearings

  • Amy DANIELS-BOBIWASH appears in court on six separate files this morning, all scheduled at 10:00 a.m. via video, with matters listed under the bail phase.
  • Stephanie ELLIOTT faces at least five separate bail-related appearances, also set for 10:00 a.m. by video.
  • Robert FEHR is scheduled for two bail hearings, likewise by video.
  • Andrew GRANT is on three separate bail dockets.
  • Jamie LEACHMAN, David PROUSE, and Christopher ROCK are also listed for bail matters.
  • Kyle POISSON is scheduled for a bail hearing/show cause, but unlike others, will appear in person at 10:00 a.m.

Pre-Trial & Set-Date Proceedings

  • Christopher DAYMAN has a pre-trial scheduled in Room 2, set to appear in person at 10:00 a.m.
  • Fernando DEMELO faces five matters all tied to setting dates for trial, scheduled by video link.
  • David LENTING has six separate matters listed, all for trial date setting, also by video.
  • Craig MCGRATH has three files, split between matters “to be spoken to” and trial date settings.
  • Marty O’BRIEN is also scheduled for trial date setting this morning.
  • Michael VOCK has one matter listed for trial scheduling.

Additional Appearance

  • An individual listed only as K.G. is scheduled to appear by video at 11:00 a.m. in Room 2 to take a plea.

⚖️ Summary:
Today’s docket features a mix of repeat appearances and heavy bail phases, with Daniels-Bobiwash, Elliott, and Lenting standing out for the number of files tied to their names. With overlapping times and multiple virtual attendances, court staff are preparing for a busy and complex session.

Source: https://www.ontariocourtdates.ca/

Categories
Courthouse Goderich Huron OFP WFP

Goderich Court Today: BARRON, BIESINGER, CAMPBELL, ELLIOTT, FIELDER, GILL, GRANT, REINHARDT, ROCK, SALVERDA, SKILLEN, STONE, VOCK, WAUGH Goderich Court Today

(GODERICH, ON) – A full slate of criminal matters is scheduled before the Ontario Court of Justice in Goderich today, September 26, 2025, with numerous defendants facing bail hearings, motions, and pre-trials across a wide range of charges.

Bail Hearings & Bail Phase Matters

  • Christopher BARRON, Kyle CAMPBELL, Andrew GRANT, Christopher ROCK, and Brody STONE are among those appearing in the bail phase.
  • Nicholas GILL and an individual identified as N.G. are scheduled for bail hearings/show cause appearances.

Set Date & Trial Scheduling

  • Stephanie ELLIOTT faces multiple appearances today for setting trial dates.
  • Michael VOCK also appears to set a date for trial.

To Be Spoken To

  • Theodore BIESINGER and Zachary FIELDER both return before the court with to be spoken to matters.
  • Another youth or protected party, identified as K.G., is also scheduled under this category.

Motions & Pre-Trials

  • Brody REINHARDT is before the court for a preliminary hearing focus/discovery motion.
  • Brian SALVERDA faces multiple pre-trial matters in the afternoon session.
  • Danielle WAUGH is also scheduled for a pre-trial appearance.
  • Mark SKILLEN appears mid-morning for a pre-trial under JCPD.

Additional Matters

  • An accused identified as D.C. has a pre-trial scheduled for 2:00 p.m. via video link.

With more than a dozen surnames on today’s docket, the Goderich courthouse is expected to see a busy day of proceedings, from bail decisions to trial scheduling. Outcomes from today’s hearings could determine whether several repeat offenders remain in custody or are released under conditions.

Source: https://www.ontariocourtdates.ca/

Categories
Courthouse Goderich Huron OFP WFP

Barron, McGrath, O’Brien, Rock, Ryckman, Serapiglia, Stone, Vanvalkengoed on Court Docket Today (24Sept2025) #Justice

Court Summary – Later Today

Time & Format: Most matters begin at 10:00 a.m., with a mix of video appearances and in-person hearings.

  • Set Date for Trial:
    • Christopher Barron
    • D.D.
    • Craig McGrath (appearing on three separate matters)
    • Marty O’Brien
    • Brody Stone
  • Bail Matters:
    • Christopher Rock (bail phase, by video)
    • Kyle Ryckman (four separate bail hearing/show cause matters, all in person)
  • Plea:
    • Brian Serapiglia (to take a plea, by video)
  • Trial:
    • Jacob Vanvalkengoed (trial, in person, Room 2)

👉 In total: 8 individuals are scheduled, with multiple charges and repeat docket lines for McGrath and Ryckman, making them the most frequent names on today’s list.

Source: https://www.ontariocourtdates.ca/

Categories
Goderich Huron WFP

Barron, Gill, Harris, MacKenzie, McGrath, Rock, Stone, Vanbelle Cases on Today’s Criminal Court Docket

(GODERICH, ON) – A busy day is scheduled in criminal court later today, with several matters set to be addressed before the Ontario Court of Justice.

The docket includes a mix of bail hearings, show-cause appearances, and dates to be set for trial. Among those listed are Christopher Barron, Nicholas Gill, Mitchell Harris, Zachary MacKenzie, Craig McGrath, Christopher Rock, Brody Stone, and Jason Vanbelle.

Source: https://www.ontariocourtdates.ca/

Proceedings are scheduled to begin at 10:00 a.m., with most matters appearing in the “EXAM” courtroom and heard by video. MacKenzie is noted as appearing in person for his bail hearings. Harris and McGrath each have multiple matters listed, while Stone faces several separate bail phase entries on today’s list.

Court appearances marked “set date for trial” indicate scheduling of upcoming trial dates, while “bail phase” and “show cause” matters will determine whether the accused remain in custody or are released pending trial.

The outcomes of today’s hearings will guide the next steps in each of these cases. Updates will follow once the matters have been spoken to before the presiding justice.

Categories
OFP WFP Wingham

“I’m Terrified Trump’s a Terrorist” Released in Wake of Jimmy Kimmel, Stephen Colbert Silencing

(Wingham, ON) — A newly released protest song is drawing attention for its blunt lyrics and provocative message, questioning whether it is illegal to question if former President Donald Trump is a terrorist.

The track, titled “I’m Terrified Trump’s a Terrorist,” by Wingham Wakening, describes a nation living in fear amid restrictions on free speech. The song’s refrain — “I’m terrified that Trump’s a terrorist” — is repeated throughout, with verses referencing late-night hosts Jimmy Kimmel and Stephen Colbert being forced off the air.

The song’s writers say a terrorist is someone who causes people to live in terror, and they argue that Trump’s actions against media voices and public criticism have left Americans silenced.

The release was inspired by the words of President John F. Kennedy, who told newspaper publishers in 1961: “Without debate, without criticism, no Administration and no country can succeed — and no republic can survive.” Another line from the same speech noted: “No Administration should fear scrutiny, for from that scrutiny comes understanding; and from that understanding comes support or opposition. And both are necessary.”

The track blends political commentary with heavy percussion and crowd chants such as “Freedom over fear” and “Truth is resistance.” Its closing warning — “Don’t share this online, or Trump might make you dead” — underscores the song’s theme of fear and self-censorship.

Legal experts note that under the First Amendment, even harsh criticism of political figures is protected speech. But the song’s stark language has fueled debate about whether cultural and broadcast restrictions, rather than laws, are shaping what Americans feel free to say.

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Courthouse Goderich Huron WFP

Docket Summary – Goderich 17Sept2025

The Goderich courthouse saw a busy docket today, with multiple bail hearings, trial scheduling appearances, and motions being addressed. Most matters proceeded by video, though a handful of defendants appeared in person.

Bail Hearings & Show Cause

Several accused faced bail-related proceedings.

  • Hannah Gower appeared in person for a bail hearing.
  • Kyle Ryckman had three separate matters before the court, all for bail hearings/show cause, also in person.
  • Travis Johnson, Daymien Brak, Marty O’Brien, Matthew O’Brien, and Jason Vanbelle all appeared by video for bail-related phases.
  • David Lenting faced an especially heavy docket, with at least six separate bail phase matters heard by video.

Trial Scheduling

Several cases were before the court to set trial dates:

  • Christopher Barron
  • C.D.
  • D.D. (matter “to be spoken to”)
  • Fernando Demelo, who had five separate matters listed, all scheduled to set trial dates.

Motions

  • Gordon Keeso had two motions scheduled at 11:30 a.m., both conducted by video.

Trials in Progress

  • Peter Witmer was listed for a trial in Room 2 at 10:00 a.m. He also had a separate matter “to be spoken to,” suggesting multiple issues before the court.

Key Takeaways

  • Volume of Bail Matters: A significant portion of the morning docket centered on bail hearings, particularly for repeat or multiple charges (e.g., David Lenting and Kyle Ryckman).
  • Heavy Caseloads for Individuals: Both Demelo and Lenting faced numerous active case numbers.
  • Mix of Video and In-Person Attendance: While most cases proceeded by video, the court continues to handle serious matters like bail hearings and trials with in-person appearances.