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A teenage boy accused of assault with a knife and possession of a stolen car in a violent incident in December at a school on Fredericton’s north side will remain in custody pending sentencing.

The 17-year-old Fredericton youth - whose identity is protected under the provisions of the Youth Criminal Justice Act - appeared in Fredericton youth court Wednesday by telephone from the Miramichi Youth Campus, the province’s youth jail.

Duty counsel Melinda Ponting-Moore said she was appearing as an agent for the teenager’s defence counsel, legal aid staff lawyer Gwynne Hearn, and she’d been instructed that the boy was seeking to plead guilty to two offences.

The youth admitted to Dec. 13 counts of assaulting another boy with a knife and breaching a youth probation order.

Similarly, the identity of the youth victim in the case can’t be revealed, given the protections under the Youth Criminal Justice Act.

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An Irving Pulp & Paper proposal to build a 550-stall parking lot on parkland not far from the west Saint John mill is causing conflict between the company and the city.

A UNB law student is filing a human rights complaint against the university for failing to accommodate her disabilities and recent graduate has already filed one. Both say they would like to see a policy revision when it comes to disabilities.

Legacy Art Exhibit to feature a celebration of culture, history and music

Black music, art, and culture will be at the forefront of celebrating Black Heritage Month at the historic Connell House in Woodstock. 

A unique event sponsored by G.L.A.M.P. Inc., the Legacy Art Exhibit, will take place on Feb. 19 and 20 and honour the accomplishments of Afro-Canadian, Caribbean, and African individuals. 

Tanika Chambers, founder of G.H.A.M.P. Inc. and creator of E.X.H.A.L.E All Well-Being, encourages everyone to take in the exhibit to celebrate diversity and heritage. 

“This event is open to all, regardless of racial background, as we believe in the power of unity and shared learning,” said Chalmers. 

She explained that the Legacy Exhibit would serve as an enlightening platform for the younger generation, offering them a chance to learn about the rich history and significant achievements of people of African descent. 

The exhibit, which is open both days from 4 to 7 p.m., features a musical performance by renowned pianist Robert Chambers. 

“He will take us on a musical journey, playing an array of compositions by Black Jazz maestros,” said Tanika Chambers. 

She noted that the Legacy Art Exhibit will be held at the esteemed Connell House, the home of the Carleton County Historical Society. 

Admission will be by donation, making it accessible for everyone to participate and appreciate the contributions of Black heritage.

The post Celebrating Black Heritage Month at Connell House first appeared on River Valley Sun.

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Members of a Sitansisk (St. Mary’s) First Nation elder’s family and the Indigenous community filled a Fredericton courtroom to demand justice for the man who died last summer.

But on the other side of the case was a tearful young man who quietly wishes he could take back his senseless and drunken attack that ultimately led to the elder’s death.

A sentencing hearing was held in Fredericton youth court for an 18-year-old Moncton-area man on a charge of assault.

He’d previously admitted to assaulting Mark Albert Brooks II, 71, better known to his family and fellow Sitansisk members as “Barnzie,” on Fredericton’s north side the night of July 21.

The offender was 17 at the time of the incident, so his identity is protected as per the provisions of the Youth Criminal Justice Act.

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Claudia Simon has written a memoir after 55 years working in her community while raising her family. As director of health, she guided Elsipogtog through a difficult crisis that reshaped the community's health-care services.

Restaurants, food processors and other businesses that rely on immigrants to take hard-to-fill jobs may find themselves unable to operate in the coming year because of a federal policy decision, New Brunswick’s immigration minister says.

With a trade war still possible between Canada and United States, why not just stock grocery shelves with food produced domestically? Inter-provincial trade barriers make that difficult, but there are some ways to pull off the red tape.

A Moncton man was sentenced to 10 more years in prison after offering an emotional apology to the teachers he shot.

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A Fredericton man whom police reported Monday as being missing and vulnerable, but for whom there was also an outstanding arrest warrant, has been located and detained.

Darrell Richard Barnes, 52, of Brunswick Street, appeared in Fredericton provincial court late Wednesday morning by phone from the Oromocto RCMP detachment cellblock.

“You’ve been arrested on a number of warrants,” Judge Mary Jane Richards told him.

He didn’t appear in court as required last week to answer charges in a frequently delayed prosecution.

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An ultralight aircraft that crashed last summer near Fredericton was destroyed when it hit the ground, and the impact was not survivable, the Transportation Safety Board of Canada says.

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A Bilijk (Kingsclear) First Nation man who parted ways with two defence lawyers already won’t get a third kick at the can through legal aid, a court heard Wednesday.

Callum James McGraw, 37, of Geegan Street, appeared in Fredericton provincial court by telephone from jail Wednesday for an update on the status of various prosecutions against him.

He appeared in court a week ago, when defence lawyer Nelson Peters applied to be removed as counsel of record for the defendant. It marked the second time McGraw had had a falling out with lawyers assigned his case by Legal Aid New Brunswick.

McGraw previously pleaded not guilty to counts alleging he possessed a stolen rifle and shotgun in Taymouth; breached a court-ordered prohibition against possessing firearms; possessed the stolen weapons without a licence, and knowing he didn’t have a licence; possessed a stolen pellet gun, chainsaw and tool set; and was unlawfully at large, all on May 10, 2023.

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A bolt falling out of a key control mechanism in a one-seater aircraft likely caused the ultralight to crash outside Fredericton last summer, killing the pilot, Canada’s transportation safety agency reports.

The Transportation Safety Board (TSB) of Canada released its investigation report Wednesday morning into a fatal air crash near Fredericton on July 19.

A single-seater, electrically powered ultralight aircraft did a nosedive into a corn field in Burtts Corner just before noon that day, killing retired Fredericton engineer and amateur pilot Ray St-Laurent, 74, of Fredericton.

The wreckage of the yellow aircraft was visible behind a farmhouse just along Route 104 in Burtts Corner.

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Davenport awaiting sentence for home invasion

Timothy Grant Davenport, 46, of no fixed address, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on Feb. 4 for sentencing after changing his plea to guilty on six charges laid by RCMP. Judge Karen Lee reserved her decision on sentence until Feb. 6 at 10 a.m.

At an earlier court appearance, Crown Prosecutor Cathleen Trafton told the court that Davenport deserved four years and three months in prison, minus time served and 18 months of probation. She also recommended that he be ordered to register with the federal DNA database and be prohibited from firearms for life. Defence Counsel Alex Carleton requested a sentence of three years and 10 months, minus time served. Depending on the judge’s decision, Davenport may have roughly two years left to serve in a federal institution once his remand time is applied.

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

The crown withdrew three charges, and one firearm charge was reduced to a lesser included offence.

The court heard Davenport entered a private residence in Lakeville where he stole a gun and ammunition and then went into the woods and discharged the firearm. A two-hour police search followed with assistance from a police dog. He was arrested near the store in Lakeville but left the gun in the woods.

The court heard Davenport struggled with mental health issues and substance abuse. He told the court he planned to return to Alberta after his release.

He appeared in court for a bail hearing on Nov. 29, 2023, and was remanded to jail. His prior criminal record was lengthy.

On Jan. 17, Davenport also pleaded guilty to fraud for an incident on June 17, 2014, in Perth-Andover. The court heard that Davenport deposited empty envelopes into a banking machine at the Bank of Montreal and then withdrew $1,000 from the machine during two separate transactions.

Neqotkuk man handed house arrest

Gavin Schloemer, 33, of Neqotkuk (Tobique First Nation), received 12 months of house arrest when he appeared in provincial court for sentencing on Feb. 4.

Schloemer will follow a curfew for the first six months and must complete 50 hours of community service work. He was also ordered to seek counselling and treatment for drug and alcohol addiction and anger management.

He appeared in provincial court in custody for a bail hearing on Sept. 27, 2024, and was released with conditions. He pleaded guilty to breaching a release order (house arrest) concerning an incident on Sept. 23, 2024, at Neqotkuk.

Schloemer also pleaded guilty to resisting arrest and assaulting police on June 21, 2024, at Neqotkuk and assaulting police on June 21, 2024, at Williamstown. The crown withdrew another charge of failing to appear in court.

Arrested and released with conditions

Henry Douglas Oakes, 54, of Greenfield, appeared in provincial court in custody on Feb. 4 after being arrested on a warrant. He was released with conditions.

Oakes was charged by Woodstock Police with impaired driving on Aug. 6, 2024, and theft from the Superstore on July 12, 2024, in Woodstock. RCMP also charged him with breach of an undertaking on May 15, 2024, at Florenceville-Bristol.

He pleaded not guilty to all charges and returns to court on Feb. 25 at 9:30 a.m. to set a trial date.

Arrested on warrants

Mackenzie O’Keefe, 26, of Tobique Narrows, appeared in provincial court in custody on Feb. 4 after being arrested on warrants. He was released with conditions and returns to court for plea on Feb. 25 at 9:30 a.m.

O’Keefe was charged with mischief causing property damage to a windshield on Oct. 26, 2023, at Tobique Narrows, and possession of a stolen vehicle and driving while suspended on Dec. 30, 2023, at Quaker Brook, Victoria County.

Released on an undertaking

Jorge Heinz Fenske, 56, of Greenfield, will appear in provincial court on April 1 at 9:30 a.m. to answer multiple charges laid by RCMP.

He appeared in court on Feb.4 and was released on an undertaking until his next court appearance.

Fenske was charged with assault causing bodily harm involving a female victim, assault with a weapon (a broom), and unlawful confinement for an incident on Nov. 16, 2024, at Wotstak (Woodstock First Nation). He was also charged with assault causing bodily harm, uttering threats and taking a vehicle without consent following an incident on Dec. 10, 2024, at Wotstak.

Sentencing set for drug trafficking

William Jarred O’Donnell, 28, of Grafton, will appear in provincial court in custody on March 25 at 1:30 p.m. for sentencing after pleading guilty to drug trafficking charges.

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

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

Held for bail hearing

Kyle Laurie Williams, 36, of Clearview, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on Feb. 4 after being arrested on a warrant for failing to appear. He was remanded to jail to await a bail hearing on Feb. 6 at 9:30 a.m.

RCMP charged him with transmitting intimate images without consent concerning an incident on June 4, 2023, at Centreville. Williams entered a not-guilty, and his trial will proceed with court-appointed counsel for cross-examination on Feb. 26 at 9:30 a.m.

Returning for plea

Samuel Robert Crewe, 30, of Jacksonville, will appear in provincial court on Feb. 18 at 9:30 a.m. for plea on four charges laid by RCMP.

He appeared in provincial court in custody for a bail hearing on Jan. 6 and was released with conditions.

Crewe was charged by RCMP with possession of methamphetamine, flight from police, dangerous driving and driving while prohibited in connection with an incident in Kirkland on Jan. 4. He has a prior criminal record.

Wotstak man has new charges

Jacob Richard Sewell, 34, of Wotstak (Woodstock First Nation), appeared in provincial court on Feb. 4 to answer new charges laid by RCMP. The matter was adjourned for plea until March 4 at 9:30 a.m.

Sewell was charged with uttering threats and assault with a weapon (a knife) involving a female victim, stemming from an incident on Sept. 27, 2024, at Wotstak.

Sewell was also charged with two counts of trafficking in cocaine in connection with incidents on April 24 and May 2, 2024, in Woodstock. He will enter a plea at his court appearance on March 4.

Two face charges for assault at Woodstock Legion

Takoda Louis Lee Christian, 19, of Woodstock, formerly of Neqotkuk (Tobique First Nation, will appear in provincial court on Feb. 25 at 9:30 a.m. for plea on three charges laid by Woodstock Police. He was scheduled for plea on Feb. 4 when the matter was adjourned to allow him more time to consult legal counsel.

Christian and a co-accused, Hannah Dawn McGuire, 18, of Woodstock, were each charged by Woodstock Police with aggravated assault, dangerous driving causing bodily harm, and failing to remain at the scene of an accident following an incident outside the Royal Canadian Legion in Woodstock on Nov. 14, 2024, around 8:55 p.m. Police were called to the scene and a man was transported to hospital for treatment of serious injuries.

McGuire appeared in court on Jan. 28 for plea, and the matter was adjourned until Feb.25 at 9:30 a.m. at the request of her defence counsel.

The pair was arrested on a warrant while attempting to cross the Woodstock-Houlton border on Dec. 20, 2024. They were held in custody for a bail hearing on Dec. 23, 2024, and released with conditions.

Bustard sentencing adjourned

Mason Bustard, 18, of Woodstock, appeared for sentencing in provincial court in custody by video on Feb. 4 after changing his plea to guilty on several charges laid by Woodstock Police.

The matter was adjourned until Feb. 7 at 9:30 a.m., when a new date for his sentencing will be set.

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

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

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

Bustard will stand trial on Feb. 7 and Feb. 14 at 9:30 a.m. on charges of breach of a release order, possession of prohibited weapons (a sawed-off shotgun and brass knuckles), possession of a firearm without a licence, and possession of a loaded prohibited firearm and ammunition without a licence on July 28, 2024, in Woodstock.  He confirmed he had legal counsel to proceed to trial.

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

Facing three charges

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

Oakes was charged with indictable sexual assault, touching for a sexual purpose, and using a weapon to commit an assault (a lighter) in connection with an incident between Jan. 1, 2017 and Dec. 13, 2021. He was scheduled for plea on Feb. 4 when the matter was adjourned to the new date.

Glassville man to stand trial

Timothy Maurice Thibodeau, 42, of Glassville, appeared in provincial court on Feb. 4 and pleaded not guilty to the RCMP’s charges. His trial dates were set for next year.

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

He will stand trial on the drug charge on Jan. 15-16, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. His trial on the remaining two charges was set for Jan. 14, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. A monitoring date was also scheduled for Oct. 7 at 1:30 p.m.

Facing two charges

Willard O’Donnell, 51, of Napodogan, appeared in provincial court on Feb. 4 and pleaded not guilty to two charges laid by RCMP. His trial date was set for Jan. 19, 2026, at 9:30 a.m.

O’Donnell was charged with assault with a weapon (a vehicle) and failing to stop at the scene of an accident in connection with an incident on Jan. 18, 2024, in Florenceville-Bristol.

Newbridge man pleads not guilty

Bernard Murray Turner, 38, of Newbridge, appeared in provincial court on Feb. 4 and pleaded not guilty to charges laid by Woodstock Police. His trial dates were set for Dec. 22 at 9:30 a.m. and Feb. 18, 2026, at 9:30 a.m.

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

He also faces a flight charge from police for an incident on Feb. 16, 2024. He appeared in provincial court in custody by video on Nov. 7, 2024, for a bail hearing and was released with conditions. A monitoring date for his trial was set for Nov. 18 at 9:30 a.m.

Carlingford man facing six charges

Patrick Campbell, 29, of Carlingford, will appear in provincial court on Feb. 25 at 9:30 a.m. to answer six charges laid by RCMP.

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

Campbell appeared in court on Feb. 4 when the matter was adjourned for plea to the new date at the request of his defence counsel.

Facing weapons charges

London Murchison, 19, of Plaster Rock, appeared in provincial court on Feb. 4 for plea on two charges laid by RCMP. The matter was adjourned until March 4 at 9:30 a.m. at the request of his defence counsel.

Murchison was charged with assault with a weapon (a knife) and possession of a prohibited weapon (a butterfly knife) concerning an incident on Sept. 2, 2024, at Plaster Rock. He was released on an undertaking until his next court date.

Trial set for breaching curfew

Ronald Terry Bowmaster, 37, of Bairdsville, will appear for trial in provincial court on Jan. 30, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. after pleading not guilty to breaching his curfew.

The RCMP charged Bowmaster with breaching his release order (curfew) for an incident on March 17, 2024, at Bairdsville. His defence counsel entered a not-guilty plea during his court appearance on Feb. 4.

Facing assault charge

Jodi Bull, 60, of Bulls Creek, will appear in provincial court on Feb. 18 at 9:30 a.m. for plea on an assault charge.

RCMP charged Bull with assaulting another man in connection with an incident on June 2 at Bulls Creek. He appeared in court on Feb. 4 when the matter was adjourned to the new date at the request of his defence counsel. The court heard a resolution is being sought with the crown.

Fredericton man gets trial date

Ryan Patrick Brown, 33, of Fredericton, appeared in provincial court on Feb. 4 and pleaded not guilty to three charges laid by Woodstock Police. His trial date was set for Feb. 2, 2026, at 9:30 a.m.

Brown was charged with assault involving a female victim, assault by choking and mischief by interfering with property (a phone) stemming from an incident on Nov. 17 in Woodstock.

Three trials scheduled

Justin Ryan Shea, 36, of Plymouth Road, appeared in provincial court on Feb. 4 and pleaded not guilty to two drug trafficking charges. His trial was set for Jan. 26 and Jan. 28, 2026, at 9:30 a.m.

Shea was charged by Woodstock Police with trafficking in methamphetamine and possession of methamphetamine for the purpose of trafficking in connection with incidents in Woodstock on June 30 and May 2, 2024. A pre-trial conference will be held on Oct. 15 at 9:30 a.m.

Shea appeared in provincial court in custody by video on Nov. 7, 2024, for a bail hearing and was released with conditions. He was charged by Woodstock Police with break, enter and theft at a dwelling house on Creighton Street on Sept. 26, 2024, and an additional charge of breaching an undertaking (curfew). He pleaded not guilty, and his trial date was set for July 14 at 9:30 a.m.

A co-accused, James Blair Hovey, 27, of Perth Andover, faces charges for the same alleged break-in and will stand trial with Shea on July 14. Hovey was also charged with breach of probation.

Shea was also charged with mischief causing property damage and break, enter and theft at the East Coast Truck Wash for an incident on March 17, 2024, in Lower Woodstock. He pleaded not guilty and his trial was set for Jan. 2, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. A monitoring date was scheduled for Oct. 22 at 9:30 a.m.

Arrest warrant issued

The court issued an arrest warrant for Ryan Eccleston, 32, of Plaster Rock, after he failed to appear in provincial court for plea on Feb. 4. Judge Karen Lee told the court Eccleston was currently at large on a parole violation.

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

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

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

Breathalyzer refusal

Bianca Laqua, 35, of Woodstock, will appear in provincial court on Feb. 25 at 9:30 a.m. for plea on one charge laid by Woodstock Police.

Laqua was charged with refusing a breathalyzer concerning an incident in Woodstock on Sept. 21, 2024. She appeared in court on Feb. 4 when the matter was adjourned to the new date.

Pair jointly charged with offence

Avory Saige Vatali, 22, and Alexander Timothy Gordon Jansen, 22, both of Woodstock, appeared in provincial court on Feb. 4 to answer a charge laid by Woodstock Police.

Vatali and Jansen were jointly charged with failing to provide the necessities of life to another person in connection with a recent incident in Woodstock. The matter was adjourned for plea until Feb. 26 at 9:30 a.m. Before their next court appearance, Vatali was ordered to undergo a mental health assessment.

Trial scheduled for bracelet offence

Brittany Priscilla King, 27, of Woodstock, appeared in provincial court on Feb. 4 and pleaded not guilty to one charge laid by Woodstock Police. Her trial dates were scheduled for Feb. 9 and Feb. 11, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. A pre-trial conference will also be held on Oct. 22 at 1:30 p.m.

Woodstock Police charged King with breach of a release order by violating electronic monitoring in Woodstock between Dec. 7 and Dec. 9, 2024. She appeared in provincial court in custody on Dec. 10, 2024. She was remanded to jail to await a bail hearing and was released with conditions on Dec. 20, 2024.

Woodstock Police also charged King with assault with a weapon (a knife), assault causing bodily harm to a male victim, theft, and unlawful entry at a dwelling house concerning an incident on Nov. 5, 2023, in Woodstock. She pleaded not guilty, and her trial dates were rescheduled for April 14 and April 24 at 9:30 a.m.

She was also charged with possession of a stolen vehicle, dangerous driving, committing mischief causing property damage and assault using a vehicle following an incident on Sept. 17, 2023, in Woodstock. She pleaded not guilty, and her trial was adjourned until May 8.

King was also charged with possessing a stolen vehicle on Nov. 22, 2022, and failing to attend court on Feb. 21, 2023. She pleaded not guilty, and a trial date was set for April 14 at 9:30 a.m.

Multiple trials for Woodstock man

Logan Estey, 20, of Woodstock, appeared in provincial court on Feb. 4 to answer multiple charges. He pleaded not guilty on all counts, and three trial dates were set for Oct. 31 at 9:30 a.m., Nov. 24 at 9:30 a.m. and Jan. 12, 2026, at 9:30 a.m.

Estey was charged by RCMP with assault, assault with a weapon (a car), and dangerous driving following an incident on July 24, 2024, at Wotstak (Woodstock First Nation).

Woodstock Police charged him with two counts of breaching a no-contact order concerning an incident in Woodstock on Aug. 3, 2024. He was ordered to have no further contact with the complainant. He appeared in provincial court in custody on Aug. 8, 2024, and was released with conditions.

He was also charged with mischief causing property damage to a window and possessing a firearm to commit an offence in connection with an incident on Jan. 1, 2024, in Upper Woodstock. The court heard Estey is also facing more charges in Fredericton. A monitoring date for his trials in Woodstock takes place on March 4 at 9:30 a.m.

Charged with drug trafficking

Charles Giberson, 46, of Rothesay, appeared in provincial court on Feb. 4 to answer a charge of drug trafficking laid by Woodstock Police.

Giberson was charged with possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking, stemming from an incident on July 24, 2024, in Woodstock. He was released on an undertaking and returns to court for plea on Feb. 18 at 9:30 a.m.

Not-guilty plea in knife incident

Chelsea Sacobie, 31, of no fixed address, appeared in provincial court on Feb. 4 and pleaded not guilty to an assault charge. Her trial date was set for Jan. 22, 2026, at 9:30 a.m.

Sacobie was charged by RCMP with assault with a weapon (a knife) involving a male victim following an incident on Oct. 10, 2024, at Perth-Andover.

Released on an undertaking

Paul Allingham, 48, of Enterprise in Victoria County, will appear in provincial court on Feb. 25 at 9:30 a.m. to answer an assault charge.

Allingham was charged with assaulting another man in connection with an incident on Sept. 17, 2024, near Plaster Rock. He appeared in court on Feb. 4 via teleconference when the matter was adjourned for plea to the new date. He remains on an undertaking until his next court appearance.

Two charges in driving incident

Olivia Annette Young, 32, of Woodstock, appeared in provincial court on Feb. 4 to answer two charges laid by Woodstock Police. The matter was adjourned for plea until Feb. 25 at 9:30 a.m. to allow her more time to secure legal counsel.

Young was charged with fleeing police and dangerous driving in connection with an incident that occurred on Sept. 13, 2024, in Woodstock.

Two charged with fraud

A warrant is being held on file for two individuals from Neqotkuk (Tobique First Nation) who failed to appear in provincial court on Feb. 4 to answer fraud charges.

John Perley and Tara Sappier were each charged by RCMP with uttering forged documents (cheques) and fraud over $5,000 in connection with incidents between Sept. 12 and Oct. 6, 2022, at Neqotkuk. They both return to court for plea on Feb. 18 at 9:30 a.m.

The charges relate to a series of stolen cheques from the band office, allegedly cashed by several community members. Other charges have also been laid.

Neqotkuk man to stand trial

Joshua Sisson, 37, of Neqotkuk (Tobique First Nation), appeared in provincial court on Feb. 4 and pleaded not guilty to two charges laid by RCMP. His trial date was set for Jan. 29, 2026, at 9:30 a.m.

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

Sentencing delayed for Neqotkuk woman

Tammy Schloemer, 57, of Neqotkuk, failed to appear for sentencing in provincial court on Jan. 30 after changing her plea to guilty on two charges laid by RCMP and Woodstock Police. An arrest warrant was issued. Her sentencing was adjourned until Feb. 10 at 1:30 p.m.

Schloemer was charged by RCMP with assault while threatening to use a weapon (a wooden stick) against another woman and committing mischief causing property damage to a window about an incident on Oct. 3, 2021, at Neqotkuk. Woodstock Police also charged her with shoplifting at the Superstore on April 20, 2023.

She pleaded guilty to the store theft and the mischief charge. The crown withdrew the assault charge.

Johnville man denied bail

Ryan Troy O’Donnell, 27, of Johnville, will appear in provincial court in custody for sentencing on two charges on Feb. 27 at 9:30 a.m. He was denied bail on Jan. 9.

O’Donnell was charged with possession of stolen property (cheques) on Dec. 16, 2023, in Beechwood and mischief causing property damage on Feb. 15, 2024. RCMP laid the charges. He changed his plea to guilty, and a sentencing date was set for Feb. 27 at 9:30 a.m.

O’Donnell pleaded not guilty to sexual assault in connection with an incident in Beechwood between Sept. 1 and Sept. 30, 2021.  His trial date was set for Jan. 16.  After one day of testimony, the trial was adjourned for final submissions on Feb. 6 at 11 a.m. The court heard he was also facing other charges in Edmundston. O’Donnell has a prior criminal record.

Charged with uttering threats

Brandon Lee Kinney, 25, of Woodstock, was scheduled to appear in provincial court on Feb. 4 to face a threat charge. He failed to appear, and a warrant is being held on file.

Woodstock Police charged Kinney with uttering threats stemming from an incident on July 19, 2024, in Woodstock. The court heard the crown may consent to the charge being moved to the alternative measures program. Kinney has another court appearance set for Feb. 11 at 9:30 a.m.

The post Woodstock Provincial Court: Sentencing for home invasion set for Feb. 6 first appeared on River Valley Sun.

House prices in New Brunswick have escalated rapidly in the last four years, more than doubling in many communities. That has been pushing up property assessments and property taxes that are based on those assessments.

New Brunswick could face new delays on three major bridge projects as the provincial government moves to fire a major contractor — a move the company believes is tied to its legal fight over interprovincial trade barriers.

Members of the legislature sought answers on Tuesday about gaps in the child death review process that were flagged by the auditor general.

Annual weekend event offers curling, prizes, entertainment and support for the River Valley Cancer Support Group

The Florenceville Curling Club will host one of the community’s winter highlights this weekend, Feb. 7 and 8, supporting the region’s cancer patients. 

The annual Curl for the River Valley Cancer Support Group features curling fun, community socializing, scores of prizes, and entertainment provided by several talented local artists. 

River Valley Cancer Support Group secretary expects the usual packed house on Friday evening and all day Saturday as the community enjoys the fun event and shows its ongoing support for the group. 

“Local musicians will be performing, tickets being sold on local beef, a firepit donated by Craig Manufacturing and a 50/50 draw,” she said, detailing only part of the full event schedule.  

She said the event encourages experienced curlers and first-timers to join the on-ice fun. 

The event will hand out curling prizes for top individual fundraiser, top team fundraiser and first-place curling team. 

While listening to performances by some of the area’s top singers and musicians, attendees can purchase tickets on a fire pit manufactured and donated by Craig Manufacturing of Hartland. They can also buy tickets for a chance to win local beef or take home some cash courtesy of a winning 50-50 ticket. 

The annual event draws a large crowd and raises thousands of dollars in donations to support the River Valley Cancer Support Group. 

Last year’s event, which featured 16 teams and a packed house on Friday evening and all day Saturday, raised more than $33,000. 

The River Valley Cancer Support Group helps Carleton County cancer patients cover travel, medical bills, and other expenses during their battle to return to good health. The organization estimates it helps more than 10 people monthly.

The post Curl for Cancer support event returns to Florenceville-Bristol this weekend first appeared on River Valley Sun.

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A McAdam man whom the RCMP said last month was wanted as part of an ongoing investigation and who detailed his flight from police on social media has been arrested.

The McAdam detachment of the RCMP issued a news release Jan. 14 seeking tips on the whereabouts of Connor Riley MacIntosh, 20, of McAdam, noting he “is currently wanted by police in connection with an ongoing investigation.”

Police advised he’d last been seen in the Fredericton area Jan. 12.

“Connor Riley MacIntosh should not be approached by members of the public,” the release said.

“If you see him, call your local police force immediately. At this time, police do not believe there is a risk to the general public.”

A Facebook profile in MacIntosh’s name appeared to chronicle his adventures on the run.

He posted, “Always fun on da run,” with videos from inside a motel room, with a stack of cash, appearing to be several thousands of dollars.

The profile also shared photos and videos that purported to have been taken in Québec.

In an update Tuesday afternoon, though, the RCMP advised MacIntosh had been located and arrested.

Court officials were preparing for him to make a telephone remand appearance in Fredericton provincial court Tuesday afternoon. A duty counsel lawyer was trying to reach him in the cellblock at the Codiac RCMP station in Moncton.

Details on any new charges weren’t available at the time of publication Tuesday.

The Facebook posts seemingly detailing his time on the lam have since been deleted or at last are no longer visible on social media.

Don MacPherson can be contacted at [email protected].

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Warning: This story contains graphic descriptions of a violent crime.

Tuesday was supposed to see the final chapter in a perjury prosecution out of a 2020 murder case, but a hearing was postponed to try again to update the offender’s pre-sentence report.

Zachery David Murphy, 24, formerly of Kings College Road in Fredericton, previously pleaded guilty to a charge of perjury arising out of his spouse’s trial on a charge of first-degree murder.

He and Angela April Walsh, 25, AKA Ali Morningstar, were arrested in May 2020 and charged with first-degree murder in the death Clark Ernest Hunter Greene, 31, who was killed in downtown Fredericton

Murphy was initially co-operative with police and the Crown, giving a sworn statement to major-crime detectives and later testimony at Walsh’s preliminary inquiry.

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U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods have been paused for 30 days, but the impulse to prioritize buying Canadian goods remains for some New Brunswickers.

A Saint John man facing first-degree murder charges in connection with the deaths of two boys found in a north-end apartment last week remains in hospital with life-threatening injuries, police say.

The head of one of New Brunswick’s largest breweries is calling for a reduction in trade barriers between provinces in the wake of Trump threatened tariffs.

A former Moncton economic development agency executive returned to court this week for hearings about evidence that may be used in his upcoming trial. 

Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc has asked his fellow ministers to draw up a list of ideas he can deploy in the planned spring budget to fight back against U.S. protectionism, a threat that shows no signs of going away even if Canada secured a pause to President Donald Trump's tariffs.

One person was taken to the hospital after a multi-vehicle crash on Route 1 near Bartletts Mills.

It happened in the eastbound lanes just past Exit 25 to Saint Andrews and Lawrence Station around 8:30 a.m. Tuesday.

Chief Sean Morton of the St. Stephen Fire Department told our newsroom that a car collided with a Gateway Operations snowplow.

Morton said two other vehicles also collided while braking for the initial crash.

Four ambulances were called to the scene, in addition to firefighters and the RCMP, he said.

The eastbound lanes were closed for several hours but reopened around 11:30 a.m. Tuesday.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation by the RCMP.

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A Saint John-area woman accused of criminal harassment over her ongoing beef with the Nurses Association of New Brunswick won’t have a criminal record stemming from those allegations.

Donna M. Collins, 62, of Route 820 in Upper Loch Lomond, was scheduled to stand trial in Fredericton provincial court Tuesday and Wednesday on a criminal charge of harassing lawyer Sophie Noel by repeatedly communicating with her between Jan. 1, 2017, and Sept. 22, 2022.

However, lawyer Nathan Gorham - who represented Collins along with his associate, Alex Pate - told the court Tuesday the Crown and defence had reached a resolution in the matter that negated the need for a trial.

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A homeless man accused of setting fire to an iconic, longtime business in Fredericton’s downtown core admitted Tuesday to that and other crimes.

Joshua Daniel Grant Burden, 49, of no fixed address, was charged with several offences in October and remanded after a bail hearing in November.

The volatile defendant - who has frequently gone on profanity-laden rants during earlier court appearances - had previously pleaded not guilty to causing damage by fire to MacTavish’s Source for Sports on Queen Street while being reckless as to whether anyone was inside and breaching a probation order, both on Oct. 29.

He’d also previously denied Oct. 12 counts of uttering threats to cause death and/or bodily harm to Nicolas De L’Eveille and breaching probation order, and Oct. 24 charges of uttering threats to cause death and/or bodily harm to Fredericton police Const. Ryan Preston and breaching probation.

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New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt says the tariff threat from the United States has created uncertainty for business and been a wake-up call for the country.

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A Fredericton man says he needs time to retail counsel and obtain disclosure before answering to a summary charge of sexual assault alleged to have occurred in the fall.

John Paul Albert, 49, of Fieldstone Court, made his initial appearance in Fredericton provincial court Monday on a Nov. 16 count of summary sexual assault.

Duty counsel Melinda Ponting-Moore said the defendant was seeking an adjournment so he could arrange for legal representation and to review the evidence alleged in the Crown file against him.

Judge Karen Lee asked the prosecution if there was a request for a publication ban in the case. Such bans on the identities of complainants in files alleging sexual offences are customary.

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With 1,000 Canadian patients waiting for lifesaving stem cell transplants, university students in Fredericton are being asked this week to help give them a better chance of survival.

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A Fredericton senior drove drunk to the city police station last year because her abusive son was on the hood of her car, angry that she was putting him out of her house, court heard Monday.

Elizabeth Larlee, 75, of Stairs Street, pleaded guilty late last year to a count of impaired driving, and she was back in Fredericton provincial court Monday for sentencing.

Crown prosecutor Brett Stanford said the case arose the night of May 15 when someone at the Ironwood Resource Centre on Brunswick Street called police at about 11:20 p.m. to report something unusual in traffic.

The caller said a white car had gone through the Victoria Circle roundabout at the bottom of Smythe Street “with a male on top of the car yelling to stop,” he said.

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St. Stephen council has voted to pay $4,480 to conduct a community safety survey through the Canadian Centres for Safer Communities. 

It was a key deliverable in the municipal plan, according to Mayor Allan MacEachern. 

The community has faced challenges including increased crime and a growing number of people experiencing homelessness. 

It also has been dealing with an absentee landlord who has left several properties to become dilapidated – of which several have been the subject of the Safer Communities and Neighbourhood Acts raids by peace officers. 

“It is very important that when this survey does go out, we get as many people as possible to fill it out,” said Coun. Wade Greenlaw. “The survey takes about 20 minutes. It’s detailed but the results from it will help the community with the right actions to try and make things better.”

Greenlaw appealed to not only residents, but non-profit groups, business organizations, and others to also fill out the survey. 

“When this goes out, I urge everybody to fill it out, the more that fill it out, the more accurate the information will be.” 

The community did complete its survey back in the fall with a bit more than 200 respondents. 

The survey was done by a group of citizens who both had concerns about perceived increased crime but also lived in proximity to Starshine Properties – apartments owned by an alleged absentee landlord who lives in Alberta. 

“A lot of residents have spent quite a lot of money on putting security, security cameras, additional lighting, and getting dogs,” said David Whittingham, the survey co-creator. “Also when you read some of the comments that came back with the surveys, the written comments say they have baseball bats at their back doors now, which they never did before.” 

About 79 per cent of respondents said they felt their quality of life had suffered. Another 88 per cent said they knew seniors who felt unsafe or threatened. 

The survey reported 80 per cent of respondents found discarded drug paraphernalia. 

It was conducted by members of the community and not by any official organization. 

According to a report filed by CCSC, it projected the cost would be $4,480, with an expected completion date of May 2025. 

It outlined the costs as follows: 

• Reviewing, adapting, and finalizing the survey questionnaire, 30 minutes, $80.00
• Uploading survey to the online platform and making a paper copy, 30 minutes, $80.00
• Compiling survey results for each question, 10 hours, $1,600
• Conducting bivariate analyses for up to 8 questions, 10 hours, $1,600
• Writing a comprehensive report of findings, 4 hours, $640

The price includes $480 in taxes. 

CCSC is expected to come before the council virtually to present its comprehensive report. 

“It will be presented in council and to the public and thanks to Coun. Greenlaw for bringing this forward,” said Mayor Allan MacEachern. 

The council voted unanimously in favor of the survey.

Advocates say the decision, now under judicial review at the New Brunswick government's request, shows a need for urgent system improvements.

Offering virtual care in two New Brunswick emergency departments has already reduced the workload of the on-site ER doctors by 20 per cent, according to the Horizon Health Network.

Residents of southwestern New Brunswick on Monday said they were worried about looming U.S. tariffs on Canadian imports.

11-year-old Waterville artist gives back to organization that helped her

Shaya Culberson, only 11 years old, is making a name for herself in the local art scene. One of her most recent pieces, a mixed-media creation on a 24×30-inch canvas, was auctioned off for $3,000 at a Jan. 14 Make-a-Wish Foundation fundraiser in Fredericton.

Shaya’s mother, Terra-Lynn Culberson, shared her pride in her daughter’s success.

“It was phenomenal. That amount could be a huge part of somebody’s wish; she just made a huge contribution,” said Terra-Lynn.

The family knows firsthand just how much impact Shaya’s contribution can have. Shaya lives with Cystic Fibrosis and was the recipient of her own wish in 2024. She decided to use her artwork to pay it forward.

Shaya is no stranger to the art world. Her mother, Terra-Lynn, is an accomplished artist who has been featured in multiple galleries and has sold many pieces of her own artistic creations.  

Terra-Lynn shared that Shaya became interested in art when she was approximately three years old.

“I used to work at the Creek Village Gallery. When I was working there, she would paint while I was painting,” she said.

Terra-Lynn said Shaya quickly grew to love art but was frustrated that she couldn’t “do it like Mom.”

Terra-Lynn decided to introduce Shaya to different styles of artwork and higher-level art theory in hopes that she would find something she could make her own.

“She took all those techniques, put them together, and came up with her own style of artwork,” explained Terra-Lynn.

Shaya was proud to be the Young Spotlight Artist in January and have her artwork featured at the Creek Village Gallery.

Shaya is a mixed-media artist who creates modern art pieces on wood or fabric canvas using plaster, acrylic, alcohol, and resin.

Terra-Lynn admits there were some concerns that her pieces may be “too modern”; however, the response to Shaya’s artwork has been incredibly positive, and she is the gallery’s top seller for January.

“She initially brought in 20 pieces and sold so many she was able to bring in even more,” said Terra-Lynn.

When Shaya is not creating pieces for sale or fundraisers, Terra-Lynn said she also enjoys creating artwork for her friends as gifts. Her generosity was immediately evident to River Valley Sun, as when asked if she had any future goals for her artwork,

“I would love to earn money from my art to buy stuff for my brother,” she exclaimed.

She did admit that it would be nice to buy herself some Roblox gift cards and “exercise stuff,” too.

When asked what she liked best about creating artwork, Shaya said she appreciated that it was “easy to do.”

Terra-Lynn feels Shaya’s diagnosis is a part of her artwork.

“I think because of her life experiences, her Cystic Fibrosis, [Shaya] is very unique with her own style. We have always told her she doesn’t have to fit into the mold that everyone else might say she has to. She can be quirky, and because of that, she doesn’t worry about what people think or like – she likes making what she likes. And that’s what she brings to her art pieces.”

The post Local youth raises funds for Make-a-Wish Foundation first appeared on River Valley Sun.

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The Fredericton Police Force says a young woman from the capital is missing and hasn’t been seen since last week, and it’s hoping the public can help officers locate her.

The city police force issued an advisory on social media Monday evening, reporting that Jayde Nolais, 21, of Fredericton, had been reported as missing.

“Jayde Nolais was last heard from on Jan. 29, 2025, and police have concerns for her safety and well-being,” the alert stated.

Nolais is described as being about 5’ 6” tall, weighing about 150 pounds, with black hair.

Anyone who has been in contact with her, has seen her or otherwise has information on her whereabouts is urged to call Fredericton Police Force at 506-460-2300 or call 911.

Those wishing to provide information anonymously can do so through Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), downloading the secure P3 Mobile App or visiting Secure Web Tips online at www.crimenb.ca.

The Fredericton Independent can be reached at [email protected].

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An Oromocto man convicted of child-pornography crimes years ago finds himself in custody on allegations he violated a court order prohibiting him from unsupervised contact with children.

Brandon Lee Cote, 30, of Finnamore Street in the model town, but formerly of King Street in Chipman, appeared before Fredericton provincial court Judge Mary Jane Richards on Monday, scheduled to go through a bail hearing.

He faces two new counts of breaching a 2018 court order under Section 161 of the Criminal Code of Canada prohibiting him from any contact, including electronic communication, with persons under the age of 16 unless under the supervision of someone as approved by the court.

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Farmers in New Brunswick are preparing for the impact of a 25 per cent tariff on Canadian exports to the United States.

Carol Ann McDevitt, who runs the Roaring 20s bed and breakfast in Lower Queensbury, about 40 kilometres west of Fredericton, said she is making the switch to as many New Brunswick products as possible.

New Brunswick will remove American alcohol from N.B. Liquor stores and avoid signing all but the most essential contracts with U.S. firms as a response to President Donald Trump's tariffs.

Premier Holt speaks to journalists as U.S. tariffs set to take effect Tuesday. In response, N.B. liquor stores have begun pulling U.S. products from shelves.

Municipal District of St. Stephen Regular Council Meeting for January 2025 on CHCO Television.

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A Fredericton man for whom there’s an arrest warrant out for a no-show in court last month is now considered a missing person, police report, and there are concerns for his safety.

The Fredericton Police Force issued an advisory social media Monday about Darrell Richard Barnes, 52, of Brunswick Street, reporting that he’s gone missing.

“Police have made several attempts to locate him without success, and there are concerns for his well-being,” the alert said.

Though the police advisory didn’t mention it, Barnes is known to suffer from mental-health issues.

He faces RCMP charges of discharging a rifle at Dustin Madden with intent to wound him or endanger his life, pointing a rifle at Madden, possessing the rifle without a licence, and possessing stolen social insurance and Visa cards, all on Oct. 3, 2023, in Geary.

Barnes has undergone psychiatric assessments in the case, and he’s been deemed fit to stand trial and not exempt from criminal responsibility due to a mental disorder at the time of his alleged offences.

Those assessment orders and repeated failures to attend court have led to lengthy delays in the case, and he’s yet to elect mode of trial or enter pleas.

He last turned up in court Jan. 7 - a day late - on the case, and he was ordered to reappear before a provincial court judge Jan. 15. However, Barnes didn’t appear in court on that date.

Anyone who has been in contact with him or has information on his whereabouts is urged to call Fredericton Police Force at 506-460-2300.

Those wishing to provide information anonymously can do so through Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), downloading the secure P3 Mobile App or visiting Secure Web Tips online at www.crimenb.ca.

Tipsters can cite police file no. 25-1092.

Don MacPherson can be contacted at [email protected].

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Hefty U.S. tariffs take effect in Canada on Tuesday. Premier Susan Holt has said they will cost thousands of jobs in New Brunswick.

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Hours before onerous tariffs on Canadian exports to the United States were set to take effect, New Brunswick specific response seemed limited to blocking booze.

New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt announced Monday what New Brunswick’s plans are to deal with a 25 per cent tariff on most Canadian imports to the United States.

The Americans’ planned tariff on energy exports is set to be 10 per cent.

The tariffs, an America-first trade tactic announced by U.S. President Donald Trump, are set to come into effect at midnight Tuesday.

Holt, during a news conference over the lunch hour Monday, said the first specific move she’s making is to stop the sale of U.S. products in Alcool NB Liquor stores and to cease ordering new stock from American suppliers.

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The housing crisis in New Brunswick is affecting thousands, but solutions are within reach. Peter Corbyn, Executive Director of the New Brunswick Nonprofit Housing Association, leads an eye-opening discussion in St. Andrews on the urgent need for action. From local success stories to practical steps for change, this talk sheds light on how communities can come together to make a difference. The event was recorded live on January 27, 2025 at the WC O’Neill Arena Theatre in partnership with CHCO-TV.

N.B. Power will stand trial over three weeks next year on charges laid after the death of a worker south of Moncton in 2023.

Hefty U.S. tariffs take effect in Canada on Tuesday. Premier Susan Holt has said they will cost thousands of jobs in New Brunswick.