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Today β€” 3 April 2025Main stream

'I'm going to fight.' Man severely injured when hit by elderly driver talks about recovery journey

2 April 2025 at 22:25

A devastating car crash involving an elderly driver left a Canton man with life-altering injuries.

The road to recovery is marked by many steps, and for Garrett Biesiadecki, each step feels like a mile.

I dont want to do this, but they make me fight, Biesiadecki said through tears while pointing to his trainers at Team Rehab in Livonia. I want to keep going.

The 52-year-old concrete worker lost his leg and nearly his life and livelihood when an SUV barreled into him while he was on a job in Canton last September.

Biesiadecki spent the past several months in grueling physical therapy as he adjusts to life as an amputee.

This is the beginner, Biesieadecki said, pointing to his prosthetic leg. Supposedly tomorrow Im going to get my updated one, because this hurts real bad.

Extended interview: 'I'm going to fight.' Man hit by elderly driver talks about recovery journey Extended interview: 'I'm going to fight.' Man hit by elderly driver talks about recovery journey

The woman behind the wheel, 81-year-old Judy Kamm, first struck that garage before coming through a backyard, hitting Garrett, and then striking a house.

I remember laying on the ground, looking at my leg, Biesieadecki said.

Biesieadecki was losing blood and fast. He believes he wouldve died had a nurse who lives nearby not come to his aid, using a shoelace as a tourniquet.

She said, Im sorry about this, but this is gonna, whoosh to the tourniquet. And then she said, Im really sorry about this, but youre not gonna die on my watch. Went to my artery and grabbed it, and I screamed so loud, and I passed out, Biesieadecki said.

Biesieadecki spent a month in the hospitalhis left leg amputated. His body broken.

Kamm was charged with reckless driving and a moving violation causing serious impairment of a body functionboth misdemeanors. Her lawyer declined to comment, saying he still needed to review the case.

Michigan has no restrictions on elderly drivers, but State Senator Rosemary Bayer is considering legislation to change that, in hopes of protecting both elderly drivers and other motorists.

Democratic leader Ranjeev Puri from Canton released a statement saying:

It goes without saying that it is incredibly unfortunate for anyone injured in these car accidents or anyone hurt in a car accident, for that matter. As state representatives, we are here to uplift the will of the people and keep people safe, and I take that responsibility seriously. There are always important factors to consider when placing age qualifiers and other such limitations in the law; however, it is essential to consider that older folks need to get around just like anyone else. It is important to support all sorts of transportation forms and options, so when elderly individuals and their families decide that it is time to stop driving.

Everyone is running, running over people, and its gotta stop. This has gotta stop somehow, and its terrible what people are going through, Biesiadecki said.

Meanwhile, Biesiadecki is hoping his rehab will allow him to get back to work and help run Action Concrete, the family business.

My dad was born and raised a Marine; he brought me up as a Marine, so you fight, and Im going to fight. Fight like he fought, and Im not going to give up, Biesiadecki said.

Before yesterdayMain stream

Farmington Hills and other communities consider deer management proposal

25 March 2025 at 21:44

Deer/vehicle collisions have been on the rise in Oakland County, with more than 2,000 in 2023 alone. That, along with landscaping damage, the potential spread of ticks and Lyme disease, and ecological concerns, are making some city leaders across the region think about how to manage a rising deer population.

A group of experts presented a potential plan toward that end to the Farmington Hills City Council on Monday.

Its been an ongoing problem since weve been here. We see deer in our backyard all the time. We love it, but I also just saw a deer get hit by a car on 14 Mile Road, Farmington Hills Resident Jeremy Long said.

The overpopulation of deer has become a point of concern for residents and leaders in southeast Michigan.

Farmington Hills is set to consider a proposal from the Department of Natural Resources and the Southeast Michigan Urban Deer Management Coalition to lower the city's deer population.

Its strictly going to be hunting and or culls. A cull is a sharpshooter being up in a tree elevated in the dark. They would have thermals and suppressors on their guns you wouldnt hear them, you wouldnt see them out there. They would shoot down on the deer and drop them there, Bryan Farmer said.

Farmer is the Deputy Director of the citys Special Services Department and heads up the deer management coalition.

The hunting plan would be bows and crossbows, strictly no guns, and the same type of plan where you can set up organized hunts where its safe, Farmer said.

Some, like Jacob Kunz an amateur wildlife photographer, are not warming up to that idea.

I really enjoy being able to come out here in the city and walk around at this nice park and see the wildlife, there are deer, turkey, and hawks. I wouldnt want that to really not be a part of Farmington Hills, Kunz said.

The problem is far from exclusive to Farmington Hills. Several neighboring communities have an overpopulation of deer.

The deer come right up to the house, and you can see where theyve bitten off the vine, theyve chewed up all the leaves, Waterford resident John Durnbaugh said.

Durnbaugh says deer are ruining his landscaping. The township says its not considering any proposals to decrease the deer population.

Chad Fedewa from the DNR says other communities are.

The city of Southfield, the city of Farmington, as well, have been working with the city of Farmington, as well, have been working on some sort of regional approach on potential deer management, but there are other communities in the southeast Michigan area that exploring opportunities as well, Fedewa said.

Back in Farmington Hills, the city council is set to take up the proposal on April 28.

Ive been a bow hunter for years. So, I think for this area, there's areas where you could probably do it safely, Long said. I would support it cause somethings gotta be done.

Judge suspends communication privileges in jail for Pontiac mom in child abandonment case

18 March 2025 at 21:49

A Pontiac judge on Tuesday temporarily suspended communication privileges in jail for Kelli Bryant, who allegedly abandoned her children for years.

I want to make sure she understands the court orders are exactly that: they are not suggestions, they are not hopes that you will comply, but I expect strict compliance to the no-contact provision, 50th District Court Judge Cynthia Walker said.

Watch the hearing in the video player below: Court hearing for Pontiac mom in child abandonment case after alleged contact violations

Walker reiterated the definition of a court order after prosecutors said Bryant broke it.

The woman accused of abandoning her children to filthy living conditions for four years said to have contacted her children's caregiver from the Oakland County Jail.

The defendant had been calling the minor victims' caregiver on a daily basis, sometimes multiple times a day, Oakland County Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Kanika Ferency said.

Watch our coverage from the day before about the prosecutor filing a motion to restrict Kelli Bryant's communication access: Prosecutors now want to revoke communication privileges for Kelli Bryant

The prosecuting attorney pleaded with the judge to revoke Bryant's communication privileges entirely.

You were very clear in your holding in your ruling you stated that there should be no contact your exact words no contact with the alleged victims, including no personal contact, no reaching out to parties who have control of those children, Ferency said.

Bryant's attorney argued neither she nor her client ever received a written order.

Ms. Bryant was under the impression she was not allowed to talk about the children, inquire about the children, not even ask how they were doing, and she didn't do any of that, your honor, Attorney Cecilia Quirindongo-Baunsoe said.

Even so, Walker did not buy the defense's argument.

The court reviewed them on the record, reviewed them at the time of the hearing, so I don't think there was anything unclear about what the court indicated, Walker said.

Walker ordered that Bryant's privileges be revoked for a week.

I am grateful for Judge Walkers decision to protect the juvenile victims in this case and suspend Kelli Bryants communications privileges for one week. Ms. Bryants multiple contacts with her childrens caregiver put them at risk and violated the court order. The continued safety and wellbeing of the three children remain our primary concern as we move forward prosecuting this case," Oakland County ProsecutorΒ KarenΒ McDonald said in a statement.

Video: Ex-boyfriend of Kelli Bryant speaks out Extended phone interview with Tyquan Vining

The caregiver for Bryants children is a relative. Bryant's lawyer says the two were in conversation to make arrangements in the event she comes up with $50,000 to make bond to be released from jail.

I knew she was going to call the caregiver immediately. That was probably in the back of her head when the Judge said what she was going to say and she was still going to do it, said Samuel White Sr., the children's paternal grandfather.

Related Video: Watch Oakland County prosecutor announce charges in the case RAW VIDEO: Prosecutor Karen McDonald announces child abuse charges in Pontiac case

White wants his son to have custody of the three children.

If not, bring them to the granddaddy in Texas and let's move forward and nourish these kids like they need to be, White said.

Walker stated in no uncertain terms that if there's another violation, Bryant will be before the court within 24 hours for an emergency hearing.

Investigation into Garden City house explosion turns toward suspicious driver

14 March 2025 at 22:29

Investigators are turning their attention to the man who drove his car through the garage moments after the house explosion in Garden City.

Explosion damages Garden City home, no one was hurt, officials say VIDEO: Explosion damages Garden City home, no one was hurt, officials say

He drove past me, and the side of his face seemed to have some soot or black stuff all over it, Steve Warne said.

Warne got a decent look at the strange man who rammed his way out of the garage at 6562 Silvio shortly after the explosion around 6:15 pm on Thursday. He had never seen him in the neighborhood before.

As the car finally made it out, the guy drove past me at a high rate of speed trying to get out of here, and I tried to get a license plate, and there was no plate on the car, Warne said.

Garden City police say that driver is now a significant point of their investigation.

We're actively looking to find out who was driving that vehicle. It's a newer model colored Chevy sedan. We don't know who the occupant is; that's what we're looking for right now, said Sgt. Craig Lewis of the Garden City Police Department.

We contacted the woman who lives at the house in question but have not heard back. Neighbors like Kevin Pietraz are still wrapping their heads around what happened.

Don't know what to think. What's going on? Did something happen? Hopefully, the neighborhood is safe, Pietraz said.

The Garden City Police Department says there's no immediate risk to the community. DTE crews were on scene Friday to make sure its gas equipment was still in good working order. The ATF is assisting with the investigation.

The Garden City Fire Department says the explosion that stunned the community started with a fire in the basement.

We were very fortunate there were no other injuries or no other homes or residences that were damaged, Chief Randy Keen said. Obviously, when I was on my route here, you hear a house explosion. You never know what you're going to see.

Anyone with information about the explosion or the driver of the car that broke through the garage, please call the Garden City Police Department: (734) 793-1700. https://www.gardencitymi.org/fixit

Ferndale police investigate after Detroit man fatally shot over the weekend

10 March 2025 at 21:22

A 27-year-old man is dead after a shooting in Ferndale.

It happened at the border of Detroit on Woodward near 8 Mile and marks the citys first homicide in nearly a decade. Police are pleading with the public for tips that will help them crack the case.

For all communities in this country, its not a matter of if violent crime is going to visit your community, its when, said Chief Dennis Emmi of the Ferndale Police Department.

And for Ferndale, that visit came around 1:45 am Sunday. Thats when Emmi says several shots rang out on the Woodward overpass above 8 Mile.

A 27-year-old Detroiter driving a Ford Escape on the southbound express lane of Woodward was on the receiving end of those bullets.

About six rounds were fired; we know that one of the rounds penetrated the vehicle and struck the lone occupant in that victims torso, Emmi said.

Police say the man crawled out of his SUV after the shooting. Officers found him on the side of the roadway. Medics rushed the man to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Were entertaining all motives at this point. We simply do not have enough information to make a determination at this point, Emmi said.

Β FULL INTERVIEW: Ferndale Police Chief Dennis Emmi talks about homicide FULL INTERVIEW: Ferndale Police Chief Dennis Emmi talks about homicide

Investigators are now turning every stone for a lead and checking with businesses near the shooting for surveillance footage.

The shooting marks Ferndales first homicide in more than eight years. Sean Morrow says it hits close to home in more ways than one.

I absolutely wouldve been walking down here because I live right across the street there, about two blocks. So, usually, Im up checking out a place or walking to a friends house, Morrow said. But Ive always felt safe here, Ive always felt confident, Ive always felt like Ive had nothing to worry about, but, you know, things happen.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Ferndale Police Department Detectives at 248-541-3650, extension 5.

Parents unnerved after man arrested following threats to Dearborn Heights school

7 March 2025 at 23:28

Honestly, when I saw the email, I was expecting it to be like a middle schooler, says Alishia Boyle.

She and her husband, David, were stunned to learn the threats against their daughters school were far more serious than they initially thought.

Twenty-five-year-old Andrew Bays is accused of threatening to use a firearm to commit an act of violence against the Howe School in Dearborn Heights. Hes now facing a pair of felonieseach carrying a max penalty of a decade in prison.

As a trained investigator or just somebody being reasonable, the things being said were highly inappropriate and clearly dangerous to even hear that kind of act being contemplated, said Paul Vanderplow, Dearborn Heights Police Department Director of Support Services.

Police say a partner law enforcement agency tipped them off Monday night to Bays alleged threats. Investigators secured a warrant the next morning and had Bays in handcuffs within hours.

I cant get into specifics, but we did take weaponry out of there, some other indicia that leaves us to believe that some forethought was put into this, Vanderplow said.

Ive been here 15 years, and this is the first time Im ever hearing about this type of thing in this area, Louis Thornton said.

Thornton lives across the street from Bays on the 5000 block of Pardee in Dearborn Heights. Theres another elementary school a stones throw away from their homes.

To have someone with that type of mentality around all of these little kids, its scary. It is, Thornton said.

Our daughter is in kindergarten. Its just kinda sad that thats the way the world is. Thats the kinda thing you gotta worry about, David Boyle, a Howe School parent, said.

Right now, its unclear why the Howe school was allegedly targeted. The school director reassured parents in a letter Thursday, saying:

Dear Parents/Guardians, I am writing to inform you about information that was shared with me on Thursday evening regarding threatening comments posted on social media that included Howe School. The Dearborn Heights Police Chief contacted me this evening to provide details about the threat which was made two days prior. We take the safety and well-being of our students and staff very seriously. The Dearborn Heights Police Chief assured us that the police had been actively monitoring the situation and have since arrested the individual responsible for the threat. Dearborn Public Schools Safety and Security Director Elzayat is in contact with the Dearborn Heights Police Department in regards to the incident. Please be assured that the safety of our students and staff is our top priority. We will continue to work closely with the Dearborn Heights Police Department to ensure that our school remains a safe and secure environment. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. We appreciate your continued support in maintaining a safe and secure school community. Sincerely, Amal Alcodray

Domestic steel supplier welcomes tariffs, while economist, business leader urge reversal

3 March 2025 at 22:27

Tariffs on imports are set to go into effect this week. While on one hand, economists say it'll hurt a lot of Americans bottom line, some American steel suppliers say its good for business.

Oh, two thumbs up. Two thumbs up, said Brian Nelson, co-owner of Spartan Sheet and Coil in Romulus.

To say Nelson supports the looming tariffs would be an understatement.

The second-generation steel man who focuses on materials for HVAC and roofing companies says domestic mills, suppliers, and processors are seeing a spike in business upwards of 15 percent, thanks to the proposed tariffs. Steel and aluminum orders often have long lead times.

Its had a serious impact on domestic suppliers being able to compete a little better; domestic mills are competing better, said Nelson. The people that have been buying international or importing steel have had some of their better cards taken away, I would say, because the playing field has been leveled.

Extended interview: Steelman Brian Nelson talks positive impacts as tariffs set to take effect Extended interview: Steelman Brian Nelson talks positive impacts as tariffs set to take effect

The 25 percent tariffs on Canada and Mexico that were delayed for a month are set to go into effect Tuesday, along with an additional 10 percent tariff on imports from China. Next week, the Trump White House will impose an added 25 percent tariff on steel and aluminum imports.

So, if you buy or bring in steel or aluminum from Canada or Mexico, its going to be hit with 50 percent, Nelson said,

Are there examples of some specific industries that might benefit in the long run from this protectionism? That is possible, and one example of that could be, if possible, the steel industry. But overall trade is a positive thing, said Michael Greiner, an associate professor of business and trade expert from Oakland University.

We import an extraordinary amount of our goods, both from China as well as from Canada and Mexico. So, as a result of that, it goes directly against the bottom line of American consumers who are going to be paying more for these goods, Greiner said.

Extended interview: Oakland University Economics Professor Michael Greiner weighs in on potential impact of tariffs Extended interview: Oakland University Economics Professor Michael Greiner weighs in on potential impact of tariffs

Maisha Cook, manager of One Hour Heating and Cooling, says the tariffs will impact the cost of materials for air conditioners, condensers, and furnaces. That, coupled with inflation and increased costs for EPA regulations, means she will have no choice but to raise prices for customers.

I would say 10 to 15% isnt out of the norm. Unfortunately, we predict it will negatively affect our bottom line, Cook said. We have consumer financing, and thats the upside: we have the ability to prevent a situation where a family is not going to be warm and healthy or cool and healthy.

Meanwhile, back in Romulus, Nelson believes Americans will be better off with policies that support American industry and manufacturing.

Im wearing Michigan-made, USA-made shoes. I only sell USA-made steel. I pride myself on that because I believe it takes a whole community. If were all buying the cheapest thing because we can save a buck, thats sending the dollars out of here, Nelson said.

Glenn Stevens Jr., Executive director of Mich Auto, released a statement saying:

Not only will the enactment of 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico threaten Michigans business climate and its signature automotive and mobility industry, but it also represents bad-faith trade policy. Unilaterally imposing tariffs before United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) renegotiations even begin will undermine diplomatic processes and risk damaging Michigans relationships with its closest trading partners.   As MichAuto has continued to advise, the tariffs harmful effects will extend beyond trade relationships and will cause businesses to purchase and produce fewer products, hire fewer employees, and increase prices to the detriment of consumers. Michigans economic viability and business attractiveness will be reduced to collateral damage.  MichAuto urges the administration and policymakers to prioritize constructive engagement over punitive measures that ultimately hurt state and nationwide businesses and consumers. Where Your Voice Matters

Woman featured in Prison Brides TV show arrested for stealing packages

27 February 2025 at 23:53

A woman featured in a reality TV show documenting the lives of women in love with prison inmates is now facing prison time.

Canton Police arrested Emma Barker, a foreign national from England, on Monday. She is accused of stealing packages from neighbors at the Ridgeline Apartment Complex.

Those were either packages that were either at the office or at the doorstep of other apartments, Captain Edward Johnson said.

Police say the investigation started about a month ago with reports of a few stolen packages. They found more inside Barkers apartment while executing a search warrant.

Web extra: Bodycam arrest of package theft suspect in Canton Web extra: Bodycam arrest of package theft suspect in Canton

I would say roughly 10 packages all the way up to 15 packages. We found Amazon packages that were addressed to other people that werent her, Captain Johnson said.

Police say the reality TV star would receive gifts from fans that she would show off on social media. Once those gifts stopped coming in, police say she began stealing packages to keep up appearances.

So she stole from inside the complex, posted these items online as items she was still receiving from her fans in order to try to get people to send her more products, Captain Johnson said.

Barker is now facing a pair of felonies: larceny in a building, which carries a penalty of four years in prison, and receiving and concealing stolen property, which carries a five-year penalty.

I would say she deserves it. If youre going to go stealing packages, you dont know if youre going to get a TV or medicine, said Joey VanGoethem, who lives in the apartment complex.

Some of Barkers neighbors, like Colleen Manning, are raising their eyebrows. Manning says shes had packages come up missing.

Maybe thats where my shirt went! Im missing a shirt. Im missing a package, Melissa Osman said.

Im also very happy they identified our thief, Manning said. I hope the wheels of justice turn and to change her ways.

Barker was featured in the reality TV show Prison Brideswhich documented her relationship with Michigan inmate Curtis Bradford.

The attorney who represented Barker during her arraignment declined to comment, saying the court will soon appoint another lawyer to the case.

Barker was released from police custody on a $25,000 bond. Shes currently on a GPS tether and is due back in court next week

Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan urges residents impacted by water main break to get homes inspected

20 February 2025 at 22:26

The clean-up efforts are underway as southwest Detroit slowly begins to dry out after Mondays massive water main break. A 12-foot section of replacement pipe is on site.

VIDEO: City of Detroit inspecting properties impacting by Monday's water main break City of Detroit inspeacting properties impacting by Monday's water main break

Get your inspections done because nobody can enter the home to make repairs if you dont have an inspection, is the message from Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan on day four of the massive water main break in southwest Detroit.

Inspectors are canvassing the neighborhood to assess damage inside homes ahead of the recovery process. The break flooded streets and basements damaging cars and appliances.

We have just secured the furnaces and hot water heaters, Mayor Duggan said. On Monday youre going to see people who got their inspections done, filled out their forms, were going to start with 72 that are without power to get the power on, then were going to work to those without heat and without hot water.

The City is asking residents to sign off on a waiver in order to provide recovery services. It releases the City from liability for any damage done to property during the cleaning, sanitizing, repair, and replacement process.

They dont give you much of an option. They say here, sign this waiver. My wife is the homeowner. She signed it, but were moving forward by ourselves, not counting on the city, Timothy Reed said.

Weve been through many, many floods, the form hasnt changed, Duggan said. The difference is those that engaged in floods that came from rainstorms and we dealt with FEMA, it was months by the time you got claims and in some cases by the time you got cleanup.

Mayor Duggan says with Detroit Water and Sewerage Department and the Great Lakes Water Authority splitting the cost for whatever damages are uninsured, theyre able to move much quicker. Residents are starting to clear out their basements, removing damaged and waterlogged property and debris.

I have a lot of stuff, no good stuff in the basement I have to throw it away because its garbage now, Arturo Olivaras said.

Were going to start that process this afternoon initially with city crews doing that work, but as the level and the magnitude of debris that gets set out increases, weve already got contractors set up to supplement what were going to be doing with our city staff, said Ron Brundidge, Director of Detroits Department of Public Works.

The citys Department of Public Works spent the past few days freeing up vehicles trapped in ice.

The City will have a health van set up with food and clothing near the impacted neighborhood starting Friday morning. The water main should be repaired in about two weeks.

Some Detroiters impacted by massive water main break and flooding tough it out at home

17 February 2025 at 23:13

You guys want to stay here or go? a first responder asked Claudia Ortiz.

We want to stay because Im waiting for the flooding to go down in the basement, Ortiz responded.

Ortiz did not make that decision lightly. She, like many in southwest Detroit impacted by the water main break, are choosing to ride things out at home as opposed to riding an inflatable boat to temporary shelter.

She works in construction and has thousands of dollars worth of power tools in her flooded basement.

Im gonna have to stay to see whats salvageable in my basement. Thats my everyday work. I need to have my tools. If I dont have my tools I dont have a job, Ortiz said.

For others, like Deanna Dooley, their pets are keeping them home.

If I leave, shut the heat off, they freeze and I cant do that, Dooley said.

The water that backed up into basements damaged furnaces leaving many in the cold. Some are using ovens, space heaters, and boiling water to heat their homes.

Jerry Reynolds is trying not to think about the appliances he may have to replace.

Well cross that road when the water goes down. Just trying to get through the day, Reynolds said.

The Hoskins unplugged everything in their basement to stave off potential electrical hazards. Theyll take shifts staying overnight at their home while the others take up shelter with relatives.

We want eyes on the house. We just dont know. What if the officials need to get a hold of somebody and no ones here? What if something couldve happened quicker if there was just one person here, Raymond Hoskins said.

Detroit police went door to door checking up on residents deciding to stick it out urging them to leave if they dont have heat or power.

Ortiz, whose furnace was damaged when her basement flooded, is concerned about her pipes freezing when temperatures plunge in the coming days.

Well we've got power, we've got electric heaters, so for today, but if it gets to be too bad and the water doesn't come back soon, we'll have to leave, Ortiz said.

If you are experiencing flooding from the water main break in southwest Detroit, please stay safe with these electric safety tips from DTE:

Do not touch electrical equipment if it's wet or if you're standing in water. Don't enter a flooded basement until it's declared safe, especially if there's a risk of electrical shock. If you can do so safely, turn off electricity at the main breaker or fuse box to prevent electrical shock. Where Your Voice Matters

Dispensary owner fuming over proposed marijuana tax hike to fund road repairs

14 February 2025 at 23:32

Governor Gretchen Whitmer introduced a $3 billion road repair funding plan that would include a tax increase on marijuana that would generate about $470 million.

Hardly anyone would disagree that many of Michigans roadways need work, but those in the cannabis industry say implementing a wholesale tax on marijuana would be a major buzzkill.

The way that you get rid of new industry, especially a new equitable industry where minorities can benefit from, the way that you slowdown that progress that momentum is by overtaxing them, said Al Williams.

Extended interview: Detroit dispensary owner talks about the proposed tax increase

Call it a blunt message from a politico-cannabis entrepreneur. Williams, the co-owner and President of Da Cut marijuana dispensary in Detroit is fuming over the governors proposed 32 percent tax hike to fix Michigan roads. Michigan currently has a 10 percent excise tax on marijuana.

Im not scared for just myself but everyone in this industry. We will not be able to survive a 32 percent tax increase, said Williams.

Williams says the larger operations that might survive would have to pass on costs to consumers.

In some cases, your gummies are going to go up 90 percent if this goes through," he says. "In a lot of cases this is going to add $2 per gram if this goes through.

Im for that, said Valerie Robinson, a Southfield resident. I mean, if they put that on gas, they can put that on marijuana.

For Michiganders, who got they business off the ground here in Michigan and stayed in Michigan, didnt run off to other states, I believe shouldnt pay, said Marquez Yeldell, a Detroiter. But the people who came here who aint from Michigan, they should pay for our roads."

Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks, a Democrat, said this about the proposal:

Gov. Whitmers plan is an honest evaluation of the real costs of rebuilding and repairing our roads. The governor, Speaker, and I have all expressed a desire to find a long-term, sustainable solution and I believe that we can take this complicated issue that has plagued our state for decades and turn it into a major bipartisan win for all Michiganders.

Our whole drive in the Michigan House is to make Michigan more affordable, said GOP State Rep. Mike Harris. I dont think adding a tax on marijuana does that.

Harris, a former cop, says the tax hike would help drive the marijuana market back underground and that there are better ways to fund road repairs.

The House Republicans have proposed a way to do this without raising any taxes or fees, and its by cutting back on wasteful spending that we already have, which, of course, is a pretty novel idea in government.

A spokeswoman for the governor says nothing is set in stone just yet and Whitmer intends to negotiate the road funding plan with the legislature.

'It truly is the Spirit of Detroit.' Volunteers help Detroit seniors with snow removal after storm

13 February 2025 at 21:59

There were plenty of cold hands, but a lot of warm hearts as volunteers cleared sidewalks and walkways on McDougall Street in Detroits Banglatown neighborhood. Thats right near Hamtramck.

I feel like Im doing good deeds, said Hunter Thomas, 10.

Thomas is from Lawn Academy, a non-profit that instills values in young people through service.

We want them to be strong academically. We want them to be strong in the community. We want them to know that they have a responsibility to the community to actually give back, said Eric Williams, Program Coordinator for Lawn Academy.

Lawn Academy answered the citys call for help with its Serve Detroit Snow Removal program, a free service open to Detroit seniors who live alone or residents who are not able to remove snow on their own.

Pauline Young started to get emotional as volunteers came to help.

"Thank you all and thank the Lord for sending yall here!" she said.

The seniors on the receiving end of these volunteers generosity were overwhelmed with gratitude.

Related Video: 'Can I give you a hug?' Senior thanks volunteers for help with snow removal 'Can I give you a hug?' Senior says thank you to volunteers for shoveling help

"Beautiful. Beautiful. God bless them," said Barbara Beesley.

Beesley says theres no way she wouldve been able to shovel her sidewalks and walkway on her own.

It truly is the Spirit of Detroit. Showing up and as you saw today, being able to see what it looks like and feels like to participate in this cause and providing this service, said Kayana Sessoms, City of Detroit District 3 Manager.

Detroit has roughly 150 volunteers signed up to shovel snow throughout the city. Some began working Wednesday night. More will be deployed this weekend.

Those interested in volunteering with the Serve Detroit Snow Removal Program or seniors in need of services can find more information by calling (313) 224-4415 or visiting: https://detroitmi.gov/departments/department-neighborhoods/serve-detroit.

Manistee man facing felony charges, jailed after witness sees him beating dog

6 February 2025 at 22:33

A Manistee man is behind bars after a witness saw him beating his puppy with a wooden stick.

Body-worn cameras were rolling as Macomb County Sheriff deputies removed Corbin Miller from his camper and arrested him at the Taco Bell on Hall and Romeo Plank in Macomb Township. Dispatchers received a 911 call from a passerby just moments earlier.

Bodycam video shows Macomb County Sheriff's Office response to report of animal abuse

I was actually sitting in my car eating my lunch, and I could hear the yelping of pain in a dog, said Brandon Dell.

Dell, who had just finished a job interview and stopped at that Taco Bell, says he saw Miller beating the dog, a three-month-old pup named Maeby, inside his RV.

You could see the puppy laying up against the window, and you couldnt even see the mans face from where I was sitting, but you could a see a cylindrical object just dropping down on the back end of the dog, and every time its just wincing with the most curdling yelp, said Dell.

Maebys injuries were so severe that animal control workers initially questioned if the dog would have to be euthanized.

The dog, from the information we have so far, had a pelvic fracture, a skull fracture, and a femoral fracture to the animal, said Commander Jason Abro of the Macomb County Sheriffs Office. Even when interviewing this individual, he admitted to our officers that he did assault the dog, and in his statement, he says its a dog, its not a human.

Commander Abro says its likely that Miller abused the dog before. Hes now facing a pair of felony charges, including animal torture, which carries a four-year penalty.

Hes definitely a danger to the community. If hes able to do that to a dog, hes able to do that to anyone, said Abro.

We contacted Millers lawyer for comment but have not heard back. Abro says theyre seeing an uptick in animal abuse cases and that Miller, who is a veteran, may have been under mental distress.

Whatever the situation may be in your life and youre struggling with your animal or pet, contact your local animal control, I know that Macomb Animal control would be willing to take any pet in or at least give you guidance, said Abro.

Abro believes that if Dell did not call 911, alerting authorities to the alleged animal abuse, the dog would have eventually died.

Maeby is undergoing surgery for the injuries and will be put into a medical foster care program after the procedure. Macomb County Animal Control is covering the cost for the medical procedure.

If you would like to help Macomb County Animal Control support the urgent care and treatment of severely injured or sick animals, you can do so here: https://www.macombgov.org/departments/animal-control/animal-control-donations

Canadians voice frustration over proposed tariffs that are postponed for at least 30 days

4 February 2025 at 00:36

President Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau agreed to pause the implementation of planned tariffs on imports from Canada for at least 30 days. Even so, Canadians frustrations over Trumps plans run deep.

We're making a huge poster facing the American side. It's being manufactured now, Joe Mikhail of Mikhail Holdings said. 'Canada is not for sale. And below it, it says Tariffs separate us, but working together we all win.

That's the message developer Joe Mikhail plans to hang from his CIBC building in downtown Windsor.

He and many other Canadians are fuming over Trump's proposed 25% tariff on Canadian exports coming into America and talk about making Canada the United States' 51st state.

As for the 51st state, Canada is never going to do that. Absolutely not. We like our freedoms, our freedom of speech, Roxanne Patterson a Canadian citizen, said.

Related video: Proposed tariffs for Canada and Mexico paused for one month Proposed tariffs for Canada and Mexico paused for one month

Canadians displeasure with the U.S. are being heard loud and clear. Even their sports fans are booing Americas national anthem at basketball and hockey games.

That just shows the deep feelings that we have. Your best friend just turned you away. That's how we feel, Mikhail said.

Patterson is joining the push to buy more products made in Canada.

I think he's going to hurt himself, Patterson said in reference to Trump. He's going to hurt the Americans. I just think he's going to put your economy right down the toilet.

At the end, it's the people that are hurting. I really wish that they would get a vote from the people first to see what they think, Diana Lee, a Canadian citizen and Windsor resident, said.

The White House says Trump is looking to hold Mexico, Canada and China accountable to their promises of halting illegal immigration and the flow of fentanyl and other drugs from entering the U.S.

While some provinces are snatching American products from the shelves in Canada, 7 News Detroit found American booze at the Liquor Control Board of Ontario in Windsor Monday afternoon.

Related video: Tariffs against Mexico and Canada paused Proposed tariffs on Canada, Mexico paused after countries agree to tougher border security measures

The Canadian government planned to respond with retaliatory tariffs on American products prior to the 30-day pause. Some Canadians are planning to avoid buying American-made products and contributing to the U.S. economy.

People in my family have already canceled trips to Florida, California, Arizona, said Peter Frise, director of the Centre for Automotive Research and Education at the University of Windsor.

Frise, who has a doctorate degree in engineering, says the Trumps proposed tariffs would leave both Canada and the U.S. with bloody noses.

Theres a small tool and dye company here in Windsor that specializes in molds for headlight and taillight lenses. There is no duplicate of that in America.Β Almost all the headlight and taillight lenses used in the North American auto industry are made here in Windsor. Ninety percent of the aluminum used in North American automotive and aerospace industries comes from Canada, Frise said.

Best of luck competing with Airbus and the Chinese aerospace industry when your price of aluminum goes up 25% and by the way, we'll be looking for other customers for our aluminum.

Man books 10 hyperbaric oxygen treatments prior to learning of boy's death in chamber explosion

31 January 2025 at 23:22

As the Troy fire and police departments continue their investigations into what caused an explosion at The Oxford Center that killed a 5-year-old boy on Friday, were hearing from those who have had positive experiences receiving hyperbaric oxygen treatment.

After a few weeks, I was able to start being able to think clearly, which I hadnt been able to do in months, Michael Krausman said.

Previous coverage: 5-year-old boy killed after hyperbaric chamber explodes in Troy Boy, 5, killed when hyperbaric chamber explodes at facility in Troy

Krausman says he spent the better part of a decade receiving dozens of hyperbaric oxygen treatments to deal with the effects of a traumatic brain injury. He had just booked 10 more sessions at The Oxford Center when he learned the 5-year-old boy died there when a chamber exploded while receiving that same treatment.

My heart hurts for that poor, poor family. Its terrible, Krausman said.

Hyperbaric chambers contain 100% oxygen, which is about three to five times the amount thats typically in a room. A person breathing inside a pressurized chamber can increase the amount of oxygen in their blood.

And the pressure I guess forces the oxygen throughout your pores, throughout everything, into your blood and gets it to flow properly throughout your body and it makes a difference, Krausman said.

Having that much oxygen in a pressurized environment makes it extremely combustible. The Oxford Center says it does not know why or how the explosion happened.

Those familiar with the facility say staffers are strict about not wearing perfume, lotions, patches and even certain kinds of clothing.

Troy officials hold press conference after explosion at medical facility Troy police & fire speak after child killed in hyperbaric chamber explosion

I think theyre worried about static electricity in the clothing, so they want to make sure you wear their scrubs. I think thats what they gave out or buy your own and bring them there, which is what I did, Krausman said.

The Oxford Center released a statement after the incident that reads in part:

"This is an exceptionally difficult day for all of us. The safety and wellbeing of the children we serve is our highest priority. Nothing like this has happened in our more than 15 years of providing this type of therapy. We do not know why or how this happened and will participate in all of the investigations that now need to take place."

A spokeswoman for the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs says state law does not require hyperbaric oxygen facilities to be licensed or regulated by the state.

Investigators are working to get to the bottom of what happened. Normally, chambers are equipped with fire suppression systems to prevent and extinguish fires. Right now, its unclear if the chamber in question had one.

We asked Krausman if he plans to go back for hyperbaric treatment.

"I will. I will because it works for me," Krausman said.

Warren man accused of robbing Roseville bank with a child in the car

29 January 2025 at 23:29

A Warren man is expected to face stiff charges on allegations he robbed a bank. Roseville police say he slid a note to a teller at the Christian Financial Credit Union on Gratiot Tuesday evening, demanding cash and walking out with about $6,000.

And turns out a child was in the backseat of his car while he allegedly held up the bank.

I dont know what goes through peoples minds out there doing something like this with your own child in the car. It couldve had a very, very different outcome, said Chief Mitch Berlin of the Roseville Police Department.

David Schwentek runs A&E Appliance next door to the bank and was stunned to hear the news.

I just couldnt believe it, man, that he would get $6,000 supposedly. You know, is it worth it? Youre gonna be in jail now, said Schwentek

Warren Police arrested the man about a half hour after the alleged heist. You could say he was caught green-handed.

We recovered a large amount of the money, Berlin said.

Neighbors Ring doorbell cameras captured police at the mans homewhere they turned the child over to his mother.

We were taking a nap, and I looked outside, and there were just cops everywhere, said Dan Wilson, a neighbor. We were trying to figure out what was going on, and we seen there was a bank robbery, and it all led to this. Its crazy.

Wilson lives across the street from the suspect and is still wrapping his head around what his neighbor is accused of doing.

I didnt even understand it. Hes a good guy, you know? Why would you do something like that? Wilson asked.

We asked the police about rumors that he said something to the teller about someone making him do this; theyve got my kid.

"Our detectives are investigating it. I believe that to be bogus at this time. The child was in the car, so I dont believe there was any foul play that made him get up and rob that bank," Berlin said.

The Macomb County Prosecutors Office is reviewing charges against the man. Hes expected to be arraigned in the coming days.

Dash and body cameras capture moments before fatal shooting of Tony Cox

28 January 2025 at 23:14

Were getting a first look at body-worn camera footage of the deputy-involved shooting death of Tony Cox.

It happened in Pontiac on Dec. 13, 2023, as Oakland County Sheriff's Office deputies stopped Coxs vehicle, saying it looked similar to another car tied to a shots fired call four days prior.

In the video, Cox is met by several deputies during the stop. He told them he was afraid. He then maneuvered around a deputys vehicle and drove off the sheriffs office says he nearly struck one of the deputies.

Coxs vehicle was stopped soon after as a deputy performed a PIT maneuver on his car.

Cox got out hands clasped and extended toward officers, but he does not have a gun. The first shot rings out. Cox then runs and is struck several more times and later died.

We believe its the rounds when he was hit nine times in the back. Those are the fatal shots, attorney Todd Perkins said.

I asked Perkins if his argument was that, at that point, he no longer posed a threat as he was running away from the officers.

"Thats not an argument. Thats a fact. How can you pose a threat to an individual when youre running away from them?" he said.

Perkins and attorney Joel Sklar are representing Coxs family in a wrongful death lawsuit against the Oakland County Sheriffs Office.

I just believe that there couldve been a better way. If hes telling you hes scared. He gave you the info you asked for, no problem, said Tanaisha Cox, Tonys sister.

The incident was investigated by the Oakland County Sheriffs Office Special Investigations Unit (S.I.U.) and independently by the Ingham County Sheriff's Office. Both entities found that the actions of the deputy sheriffs were objectively reasonable under the circumstances, said Stephen Huber, Oakland County Sheriffs Office Public Information Officer.

The investigator from the Ingham County Sheriffs Office tasked with reviewing the incident came to this conclusion, saying in part:

any reasonable police personnel, presented with these case facts, would have believed the suspect, Tony Cox, posed a threat of serious bodily injury and or death to deputies it is also my opinion that after the suspect assumed a shooting stance and began to run from the scene of the crash, any reasonable police personnel would believe the suspect was armed, had just committed violent felonies, and that he posed a present danger to the police officers on the scene as well as to the public at large.

Perkins says he and Sklar are moving forward with their suit intent to get justice for Coxs family.

It definitely confirms everything weve been feeling that he should still be here, and we miss him dearly, said Tiffany Macon, Coxs sister. Tony wasnt armed. As officers, I feel like they shouldve made sure he wasnt armed.

Canton police, MSP joint operation shutters tobacco shops accused of illegally selling to minors

25 January 2025 at 00:47

A joint operation between the Canton Police Department and Michigan State Police led to the closure of tobacco shops accused of selling vape products to kids.

Every week, we see kids with just pants on with their high school logo or hoodies with their high school logo walking in and out its constant, said Zack Mcardle, who works out at a gym near Vape N Chase. Pretty much the main customers I see here are kids.

King Tobacco and Vape N Chase have been on the Canton Police Departments radar for months. The first blip came from complaints from residents. Those complaints were later confirmed through a series of decoy buys by high school students working undercover for police.

On Friday, Canton police and MSP executed search warrants at both shops and got the green light to have the citys building department shut them down.

Most of the businesses in Canton follow the rules like theyre supposed to, Capt. Joseph Bialy of the Canton Police Department said. But when you have those outliers, the message we would like to send to them is if youre going to be an outlier and youre going to sell these products to minors, were going to hold you accountable and potentially impact your business sales.

Canton did not just make the businesses close shop, theyre also seizing their products. Some of the products make their way to Plymouth-Canton Community Schools.

Weve had students that had ingested a vape pen thinking its simply a vape pen, then they find out there are high levels of THC in it and they get very sick, up to and including having to be hospitalized, Josh Meier said.

Meier is the districts director of school safety and security.

Related video: Inside the Detroit police crackdown on businesses selling vapes to minors Inside the Detroit police crackdown on businesses selling vapes to minors

For us, its a problem we want to address, not necessarily from a discipline standpoint although, we will administer discipline but we want kids to understand the health implications of this: what this vaping may do to them 10 or five years down the road, Meier said.

Some vape products are often labeled as having a THC content of less than .3% but lab reports show the total cannabinoids, which includes THC, at nearly 80%.

The shops owner will have to go to court to reopen. He was unavailable for comment Friday.

The two employees taken into custody could face felony charges for illegal vape sales.

Detroit family speaks out after home invasion where knife put to child's throat

23 January 2025 at 23:19

The family says the suspect stood on a dumpster to get into the house through a bathroom window. Once inside, he unlocked other doors in the house and headed to one of the bedrooms, where he put a knife to a nine-year-old girls throat.

Though unharmed, the nine-year-old niece is still shaken up after the home break-in that happened around 3 am Monday, January 13th.

Shes still frightened. Shes still traumatized. Any noise being made, she gets scared and spooked out, said Breana Pearl, the girls aunt.

Extended interview: 'It's scary, because it can be anybody.' Child's aunt talks about attempted abduction

A guy approached her at her room door, and he put his finger up and said, Shhh, and she got kinda scared. She didnt know what was going on, then he approached her with a knife and put it up to her neck and told her to stop screaming, kept telling her to be quiet, and she just started screaming, said Pearl.

That woke up the girls mother, who bolted from her room to see the suspect running out of her front door on Hubbell near Schoolcraft. Her neighbors are stunned.

"Very frustrating, yeah. That somebody would do something like that," says neighbor Chris Robertson.

A Detroit police spokesperson says the department is actively investigating the case and has stepped up patrols in the area.

Its been over a week now since this happened. For so many people too not know about whats going on in the community in regards to someone actually breaking into somebodys house and putting a knife up to a little nine-year-old girl, you tell me what community that flies in, said Isiah Zeek Williams.

Williams heads up New Era Detroit, one of the citys community violence intervention groups. Men from his team have been canvassing the area since the break-in. Earlier this week, they found a loaded shotgun in an abandoned house next door to the home in question.

For one to be so close, a situation like that, its even more alarming, and once again, not saying the shotgun belonged to the person who did that, but its close enough for concern, said Williams. Were going to treat it as such and make sure we put ourselves in the understanding that there is a real predator out on the loose, and the community needs to be to first and foremost informed and first and foremost vigilant.

Anyone with information about that break-in please call Detroit Police Departments Second Precinct at 313-596-5240.

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