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Central Huron OPP Police Press Releases WFP

Huron Murder Update: Police Seek Witnesses

(CENTRAL HURON, ON) – Police continue to seek witnesses in a homicide investigation in Central Huron. 

Investigators have received information that two individuals may have been in the wooded area near the former Holmesville Public School on Cut Line Road between 12:00 p.m. and 4:15 p.m. on July 2, 2024. Police believe these individuals have information that could assist the investigation but have not yet come forward.

The investigation began on July 2, 2024, at 4:18 p.m., when members of the Huron County Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and emergency services responded to a Cut Line Road address between Parr Line and Tipperary Line, where a youth was located, transported to hospital, and later pronounced deceased.

The accused, whose identity is protected under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, remains in custody.

The investigation continues by the Huron County OPP Crime Unit, under the direction of the OPP Criminal Investigation Branch, with assistance from OPP Forensic Identification Services and in conjunction with the Office of the Chief Coroner.

While we acknowledge the public interest in this case, investigators are asking that the privacy of the families be respected, along with the court-ordered publication bans.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Huron County OPP at 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or submit a secure web-tip at ontariocrimestoppers.ca, where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,000

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Central Huron OPP Police Press Releases WFP

Murder Update: Police Seeking Public Assistance

(CENTRAL HURON, ON) – Police are seeking public assistance in relation to a homicide investigation in Central Huron. 

Investigators are looking to speak with anyone who was in the area of Holmesville Public School on Cut Line Road between 12:00 p.m. and 4:15 p.m. on July 2, 2024. Motorists who travelled through the area during this time are also asked to check their dashcams for any footage that may assist with the investigation.

On July 2, 2024, at 4:18 p.m., members of the Huron County Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and emergency services responded to a Cut Line Road address between Parr Line and Tipperary Line, where a youth was located, transported to hospital, and later pronounced deceased.

The investigation continues by the Huron County OPP Crime Unit under the direction of the OPP Criminal Investigation Branch, with assistance from OPP Forensic Identification Services and in conjunction with the Office of the Chief Coroner.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Huron County OPP at 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or submit a secure web-tip at ontariocrimestoppers.ca, where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,000.

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Alerts WFP

Judge to Rule on Appeal of Fines Against Wingham Coffee Shop

(Wingham, ON) On July 11th at 10:30 am, Judge T.G. MacDonald will deliver a crucial ruling on the appeal of $6,900 in fines issued against Buck & Jo’s, a coffee shop in Wingham, Ontario. These fines were originally imposed by Justice Of The Peace Frank Leddy, who now faces scrutiny for potential errors in his judgment.

The fines stem from a series of contentious interactions between Buck & Jo’s and Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) inspectors. The coffee shop owners, notably Buck, have publicly and repeatedly stated that they would lock their doors before the compliance deadline rather than infringe upon their customers’ rights. They argue that this decision was a political statement and should not warrant punishment.

Allegations have emerged against HPPH inspectors, including dereliction of duty, refusal to conduct inspections, and refusal to answer pertinent questions. Videos capturing these interactions have gone viral, amassing over 250,000 views, showing Buck firmly standing his ground against inspectors who failed to perform their duties adequately.

One key aspect of the case is the admission by HPPH that their inspectors did not have the authority to check photo identification and health information of customers. They conceded that without this authority, they could not impose such responsibilities on Buck or any other individual.

This case raises an important legal question: Does a business have the right to shut down before a compliance deadline to avoid legal complications? The outcome could set a significant precedent for similar cases in the future.

The controversy includes allegations of perjury against HPPH inspectors and claims of intimidation tactics. During the first visit by HPPH, an Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) officer accompanied the inspector with his hand on his gun, demanding compliance with the inspection. Contrary to HPPH’s claims, video evidence disproves allegations that Buck brandished a weapon during the interaction.

Despite the restaurant being closed a week before the incident and remaining closed for months afterward, it was fined $6,900, a sum notably higher than fines for some drunk driving offenses, which are typically around $1,500. There were also inconsistencies in the inspectors’ testimonies, with one inspector falsely claiming to have read online that the dining room would be open for indoor dining. HPPH issued and then deleted a press release that inaccurately stated they had shut down the dining room, which was already closed at the time.

The case has been drawn out over 972 days, with accusations that the prosecution has been profiting from the extended proceedings. Inspectors allegedly provided around 30 inconsistent statements during the trial. Justice Of The Peace Leddy has been criticized for his handling of the case, including admitting multiple times that he could not keep up with the proceedings and failing to obtain a trial transcript, leading to potential errors in his ruling.

Judge MacDonald’s upcoming decision will address these controversies and the broader implications for businesses facing similar situations. The hearing will be available for public viewing via a Zoom link. https://ca01web.zoom.us/j/64074406397?pwd dUNjcnE5K1k4R2N4TkxvT1JtUGtpZz09

This case highlights the challenges and complexities of enforcing health regulations and the rights of businesses in navigating compliance issues. The outcome will be closely watched by legal experts, business owners, and the public alike.

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Meaford OPP Police Press Releases WFP

Two From Meaford Arrested

(TOWN OF WASAGA BEACH, CLEARVIEW TOWNSHIP, ON) – Members of the Huronia West Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have arrested and charged a male and female with theft related charges from Meaford, Grey County.

On March 16, 2024, members of the Huronia West Detachment responded to a report of at theft that occurred in Clearview Township, where a male and female had rented an Air BnB and stole a large amount of furniture and appliances.

Members from Community Street Crime Unit (CSCU) conducted further investigation which led to a storage locker in the Collingwood area that had been rented by the accused. A search warrant was authored and executed at the storage facility where some of the stolen property was located.

Christopher BIKKER, 43-year-old of Meaford, was arrested and charged with the following:

·        Theft Over $5000

·        Possession of Property Over $5000

Nicole SWANN, 36-year-old of Meaford, was arrested and charged with the following:

·        Theft Over $5000

·        Possession of Property Over $5000

The Huronia West OPP is committed to serving our province, including the Town of Wasaga Beach and the Townships of Springwater and Clearview. If you have any information about crime in our community, please contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or submit your information online at www.crimestopperssdm.com. Crime Stoppers does not subscribe to call display, and you will remain anonymous. You will not testify in court and your information may lead to a cash reward of up to $2,000.

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Central Huron OPP Police Press Releases WFP

Murder In Central Huron

(CENTRAL HURON, ON) – A young person has been charged with first degree murder in connection with a death investigation in Central Huron.

On July 2, 2024, at 4:18 p.m., members of the Huron County Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and emergency services responded to a Cut Line Road address between Parr Line and Tipperary Line, where a youth was located, transported to hospital, and later pronounced deceased.

As a result of the investigation, police have charged a young person from Central Huron with first degree murder, contrary to section 235(1) of the Criminal Code.

The accused appeared before the Ontario Court of Justice in Goderich.

 The identity of the accused is protected under the Youth Criminal Justice Act and will not be released.

The investigation continues by the Huron County OPP Crime Unit under the direction of the OPP Criminal Investigation Branch, with assistance from OPP Forensic Identification Services and in conjunction with the Office of the Chief Coroner.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact the Huron County OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or ontariocrimestoppers.ca.

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Central Huron OPP Police Press Releases WFP

Death Investigation In Central Huron

(CENTRAL HURON, ON) – Members of the Huron County Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are currently conducting a death investigation in Central Huron.

On July 2, 2024, at approximately 4:15 p.m., emergency services responded to a Cut Line Road address between Parr Line and Tipperary Line, where an individual was located, transported to hospital, and later pronounced deceased.

The investigation is in its early stages and residents in the area should expect to see a large police presence. There is no threat to public safety.

The investigation is continuing by the Huron County OPP Crime Unit under the direction of the OPP Criminal Investigation Branch, with assistance of OPP Forensic Identification Services and in conjunction with the Office of the Chief Coroner.

Anyone with information is being asked to call the Huron County OPP at 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or submit a secure web-tip at ontariocrimestoppers.ca, where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,000.

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OPP Police Press Releases Thames Centre WFP

Scott CONNELLY From Lucknow Arrested – Details Released

(THAMES CENTRE, ON) – Driver charged with impaired after police attend residence in Thames Centre for an unwanted person.

On July 1, 2024, at 2:16 a.m., members of the Middlesex County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) were dispatched to an address on Thames Street in Dorchester, Thames Centre, for the report of an unwanted person.

Police arrived at the address and observed the unwanted person asleep in their vehicle.

It was determined the driver had previously consumed alcohol. The driver was arrested and transported to the Middlesex OPP detachment.

As a result, Scott CONNELLY, a 52-year-old of Lucknow, has been charged under the Criminal Code with:

·      Operation while impaired – alcohol and drugs

·      Operation while impaired – blood alcohol concentration (80 plus)

The accused has been released from police custody and is scheduled to appear in the Ontario Court of Justice to speak to the charges on August 26, 2024.

The Middlesex OPP wants to remind the public that if you see anything suspicious or suspect an impaired driver you should contact the Ontario Provincial Police or your nearest police authority immediately.

If you have any information that could assist with the investigation, the OPP can be reached anywhere in the Province of Ontario at 1-888-310-1122. 

If you wish to remain anonymous you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) where you may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $2000. 

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Alerts Breaking News WFP

Protest Parade: Not Our Leader, We Won’t Follow You #WinghamWakening

(North Huron, On) In what can only be described as a public relations train wreck, North Huron Reeve Paul Heffer turned this year’s Homecoming Parade into a spectacle of controversy and chaos. The Reeve, in a move that has left the town both amused and outraged, decided to take the prime spot in the leading firetruck—an honor traditionally reserved for a child or a disabled person to enjoy a moment of glory.

This blatant disregard for community tradition quickly turned the crowd’s cheers into jeers. As Heffer waved from his high perch, oblivious to the simmering resentment, he was met with a chorus of boos and the inventive addition of mooing—a cheeky play on his last name, Heffer, reminiscent of a heifer. The spectacle was as hilarious as it was humiliating.

The real show of defiance, however, came from the parade participants themselves. In an unprecedented act of protest, they left a gaping ten-minute gap between the firetruck carrying Heffer and the rest of the parade. This bold statement was their way of telling Heffer, “You are not our leader, and we won’t follow you.”

One local resident, summed up the sentiment: “When Heffer rolled by, I thought, ‘Here comes the joke of the parade.’ Turns out, he was the punchline.”

As the minutes ticked by with nothing but empty street, confused spectators started to question if the parade was over. Social media exploded with hashtags like #NotMyReeve and #ReeveMooveOver, with countless memes and gifs of cows taking the lead in various parades.

Even the town’s pets got in on the action. A group of dog owners organized an impromptu dog parade that promptly followed the firetruck down the sidewalk, complete with signs reading, “Our dogs have better leaders.”

As the dust settles, Reeve Heffer is left to navigate the aftermath of a public relations disaster of bovine proportions. Will he address the town’s uproar, or will he, like the ten-minute gap, leave the community in suspense?

One thing is certain: North Huron’s Homecoming Parade 2024 will be remembered not for its celebration, but for the audacious statement made by its community.

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Alerts Breaking News WFP

Reeve Exposed As A Cold Blooded Bully In Wingham Homecoming Parade #EndTheAbuse

Yesterday, North Huron Reeve Paul Heffer paraded through the streets of his own community, flaunting his contempt for the very people he’s sworn to serve. The once-noble institution of Homecoming was reduced to a spectacle of shame and mockery, as Heffer’s presence served as a constant reminder of his cruelty and indifference.

The crowd jeered and “mooed” in derision as Heffer rode in a firetruck reserved for Community Living individuals, a cruel exploitation of those with special needs for his own vanity. His title as parade marshal was an insult to the very notion of public service, as it reeked of self-importance and disregard for those around him.

A 10-minute gap between Heffer and the rest of the parade participants only served to emphasize his isolation and detachment from the community he claims to lead. It was as if they were trying to distance themselves from the toxic presence that is Heffer.

North Huron’s notorious reputation as the highest-taxed municipality in Ontario is a testament to its corrupt and inefficient leadership. And Heffer’s antics at the Homecoming parade only added fuel to the fire, solidifying his position as one of the most reviled public figures in the province.

But what’s truly staggering is the council’s desperation to salvage their tattered image. They latched onto this event like a parasite, attempting to rewrite their narrative after Heffer’s brazen threats against residents through their unaccountable by-law enforcement department. Meanwhile, fire hydrants on Josephine St were freshly painted for visiting tourists, while residents who call North Huron home year-round are left to suffer in neglect.

And if that wasn’t enough, headlines this morning revealed that 70% of Canadians believe Canada is broken. It’s clear that North Huron council, led by the likes of Paul Heffer, is not just part of the problem but may be beyond redemption.

As residents continue to bear the brunt of Heffer’s cruelty and neglect, it’s time for them to demand accountability and change. The people of North Huron deserve better than a leader who sees them as nothing more than pawns in his game of power and control.

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Exeter WFP

Exeter Drug Bust, Two Arrested

(EXETER, ON) – Two individuals are facing several Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) charges after a drug trafficking investigation in the Town of Exeter.

In June of 2024, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Organized Crime Enforcement Bureau (OCEB) in London began an investigation into two individuals believed to be trafficking illegal substances in the Town of Exeter and the surrounding Huron County area. On June 25, 2024, the investigative team executed a search warrant in Exeter with assistance from the Huron-Perth Community Street Crime Unit and the Huron County OPP Detachment.

As a result of the search warrant, police seized the following:

  • Approximately 255 grams of suspected fentanyl
  • Approximately 33 grams of suspected methamphetamine
  • 26 suboxone tablets
  • Five morphine tablets
  • 42 unknown tablets
  • A quantity of a suspected cutting agent
  • 19 rounds of shotgun shells
  • Two digital scales
  • $1,280 CAD
  • Two cell phones

The estimated street value of the drugs seized is $13,700.

Carly JOHNS, age 29 of Exeter, has been charged with the following offences contrary to the Criminal Code and CDSA:

  • Possession of ammunition contrary to prohibition order
  • Possession for the purpose of trafficking – fentanyl
  • Possession for the purpose of trafficking – methamphetamine
  • Possession – buprenorphine
  • Possession – morphine

Travis DAVIS, age 35 of Exeter has been charged with the following offences contrary to the CDSA:

  • Possession for the purpose of trafficking – fentanyl
  • Possession for the purpose of trafficking – methamphetamine
  • Possession – buprenorphine
  • Possession – morphine

The accused were remanded into custody and are scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Goderich on a later date.

Anyone with information about possession, production or trafficking of illegal drugs should contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or ontariocrimestoppers.ca.

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Brockton OPP Police Press Releases WFP

Curtis ANDERSON: Break & Enter

(BROCKTON, ON) – On June 24, 2024, at 11:38 a.m., the South Bruce Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) received a report of a break and enter to a property along Chepstow Road in the Municipality of Brockton. Officers arrived and located an individual nearby who was taken into custody without incident.

Curtis ANDERSON, 30-years-old, from the Municipality of Brockton was charged with:

  • Break and Enter
  • Mischief under $5000
  • Possession of Stolen Property

The accused will be appearing before the Ontario Court of Justice in Walkerton to answer to the charges.

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Meaford OPP Police Press Releases WFP

Break & Enters In Meaford

(MEAFORD, ON) – The Grey Bruce Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are investigating three break and enters and one theft in the Municipality of Meaford.

On June 23, 2024, at 8:31 p.m., the Grey Bruce OPP were dispatched to a break and enter on Albert Street between Thompson Street and Victor Street in the Municipality of Meaford. It is believed that the break and enter occurred on this date between 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. Approximately $300 in camping supplies was taken.

On June 24, 2024, the Grey Bruce OPP received three separate calls for break and enters in Meaford. 

At 9:09 a.m. a resident on Parker Street West, West of Thompson Street in the Municipality of Meaford called police to report that an individual stole a bicycle from their shed. The bicycle was valued at $200. The caller has video surveillance but did not capture the suspect well. It appeared that the suspect attended the residence on June 23, 2024, at midnight (going into June 24, 2024).

At 10:12 a.m., a resident on Birchwood Court in the Municipality of Meaford called police to report a few bicycles stolen from their property.

At 12:15 a.m., a resident on Parker Street West, West of Thompson Street in the Municipality of Meaford called police to report a break and enter.

The last two occurrences are still in the early stages of investigation and more information will be provided as it becomes available.

Police are asking residents in the areas of:

·      Albert Street between Thompson Street and Victor Street in the Municipality of Meaford to check their video surveillance on June 23, 2024, between 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.

·      Parker Street West, West of Thompson Street in the Municipality of Meaford to check their video surveillance on June 23, 2024, at midnight (going into June 24, 2024).

·      Birchwood Court before June 24, 2024, at 10:12 a.m.

It is important for homeowners to report all break and enters to police.

The Grey Bruce OPP is requesting anyone with information to call 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or submit a secure web-tip at www.cstip.ca, where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2000.

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Kincardine OPP Police Press Releases WFP

Kincardine Drug Bust: Name Released

(KINCARDINE, ON) – On June 22, 2024, at 2:07 a.m., officers with the South Bruce Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) stopped to check a vehicle during a Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere (RIDE) Program in the Municipality of Brockton

During the interaction with the occupants, officers observed illicit drugs in plain view. A search led to the seizure of drugs.

As a result of the investigation, the South Bruce OPP have charged:

Sam Van Bakel, 20-years-old, from Hensall Ontario is charged with:

  • Poss. of a Schedule 1

The accused will appear at the Ontario Court of Justice at a later date.

The South Bruce OPP is requesting anyone with information to call 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or submit a secure web-tip at www.cstip.ca, where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2000.

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OPP Police Press Releases Walkerton WFP

Sharon TIFFANY: Impaired Driving

(WALKERTON, ON) – The South Bruce Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) arrested an impaired driver after receiving a traffic complaint by a citizen in Walkerton, in the Municipality of Brockton.

On June 23, 2024, members of the South Bruce OPP were contacted by a concerned citizen in the Municipality of Brockton due to the driving of an observed motorist. At approximately 8:44 p.m., police stopped the vehicle to check the sobriety of the driver. The driver was placed under arrest.

Sharon TIFFANY, 60-years-old, from the Municipality of Arran-Elderslie was charged with:

  • Operation while impaired – drug
  • Possession of a controlled drug

A reminder to the public leading up to Canada Day long weekend that police will be out targeting impaired driving. Traffic safety is everyone’s responsibility. 

The South Bruce OPP is reminding the public to report impaired driving by calling 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or submit a secure web-tip at www.cstip.ca, where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2000.

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Meaford OPP Police Press Releases WFP

2 Arrested In Meaford – Names Released

(MEAFORD, ON) – Two individuals are facing charges after the police received complaints of trespassers on their property.

On June 23, 2024, at 3:56 p.m., the Grey Bruce Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) received a report of two individuals trespassing on someone’s property and that one individual was still on the property and the other left on foot. Police located the individual on foot and the individual at the residence. 

John Lawrence, 57-years-old of Meaford was charged with, theft under $5000.

Scott Weiler, 36-years-old of Meaford was charged with, theft under $5000 and possession of a schedule I substance – methamphetamine.

The accused parties are scheduled to appear at the Ontario Court of Justice in Owen Sound on July 25, 2024.

The Grey Bruce OPP want residents to call 1-888-310-1122 or 911 if they suspect someone is trespassing on your property.