| Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | Content Warning: This article contains references to offences involving a minor. Reader discretion is advised. A Belleville court case involving serious offences against a child is now moving toward sentencing, with a date set for early May. According to court information, Brian Robert Reid  was found guilty earlier this year in connection with a child exploitation case. The court is expected to determine his sentence on May 4th, 2026 . What We Know So Far Reid was convicted on January 23rd following a trial involving offences against a minor. The conviction means the court has found the defendant guilty, and the focus now shifts to what penalty will be imposed. What Happens Next At the sentencing hearing, the judge will take several factors into account, including: The seriousness of the offences The impact on the victim The offender’s background Submissions from both the Crown and the defence Those interested in the outcome are encouraged to be present at the sentencing on May 4th To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email, please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6 Original Source: Belleville Intelligencer

| Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | Update: As of 2:12 am highway 2 has fully reopened. Motorists are being advised of a road closure in the area following a reported collision. The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have closed the eastbound lanes of Old Highway 2 between Aikins Road and Montrose Road in Quinte West. The closure is expected to remain in place for several hours. The collision occurred earlier this evening, but emergency crews are still working to reopen the road. Drivers are being asked to avoid the area and use alternate routes until further notice. According to initial reports that we have received, this was a potential hit-and-run with a deceased cyclist. If you saw anything tonight, please contact OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or submit a tip through https://crimestoppersquinte.ca/ Police say updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Residents travelling through the area are encouraged to plan ahead and allow extra time for their commute. Our thoughts are with all those affected by tonight's tragic collision. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6 Small Business Spotlight

| Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | A 61-year-old Frankford man is facing impaired driving charges following a traffic stop in the early morning hours of April 17th. According to the Belleville Police Service, officers conducted a traffic stop at approximately 1:46am on Wallbridge Loyalist Road. During the interaction with the driver, an investigation was initiated, which led to an arrest. As a result of the investigation, Balakrishnan Pandalangat, age 61, of Frankford, has been charged with: Operation while impaired – alcohol Operation while impaired – blood alcohol concentration over 80 mg Police say the accused was released on an undertaking and is scheduled to appear in court in May. Impaired driving continues to be a serious concern across the region, with police reminding the public that even small amounts of alcohol can impact driving ability. Residents are encouraged to plan ahead and arrange for a safe ride home if they intend to consume alcohol. Anyone who suspects an impaired driver is urged to contact police immediately. In non-emergency situations, the public can contact the Ontario Provincial Police at 1-888-310-1122. Together We Can Make Our Community Safer To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6 Small Business Spotlight If you would like to advertise with us please email smalltownproductionscanada@gmail.com Article Source: April 17, 2026 – Belleville Police Service

| Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | Update: Blackie has been found and is now home safe A dog has been reported missing in the Campbellford area after failing to return home late last night. Blackie, described as a friendly and gentle family pet, was let outside briefly and did not come back. He was last seen in the IXL Road/Church Street area and is believed to still be somewhere nearby. Due to the the length of time he has been lost for, it is possible the dog is frightened and may be hiding in nearby properties or sheltered areas. At the time he went missing, Blackie was not wearing a collar. If seen you can contact Brittany on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/brittany.doran.2025/ Residents in the surrounding area are encouraged to check their yards, sheds, garages, and under decks, as the dog may have sought refuge. Please do not chase, if seen please contact Blackie's family and let them know right away To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

| Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | A 30-year-old Belleville man has been arrested and charged following an investigation by the Belleville Police Service’s Internet Child Exploitation Unit. Police say the arrest took place on Friday, April 10th, 2026, after an investigation into alleged online offences involving a minor. The accused has been charged with: Luring a person under the age of 18 Making child sexual abuse and exploitation material Exposure to a person under the age of 16 The accused was held in custody pending a bail hearing. His name has been withheld to protect the identity of the victim. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6 Source: https://www.bellevilleps.ca/april-15-26-2/

| Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | On April 14 th at 8:08 pm, Belleville Police responded to multiple calls regarding a vehicle being driven recklessly in a business parking lot in the city’s north end. Further investigation revealed that the male suspect had attempted to leave the business without paying for merchandise. When an employee tried to stop him, he shoved the employee to the ground, took their cellphone, and fled to his vehicle with the stolen items. Officers reviewed surveillance footage showing the suspect leaving the business and driving aggressively past other vehicles and pedestrians in the parking lot. Police later located the suspect and discovered a knife during his arrest. As a result of police investigation, a 32-year-old Belleville man was arrested and charged with: Robbery with violence Unauthorized possession of a weapon Theft under $5000 – shoplifting Dangerous operation Failure to comply with an undertaking Stunt driving (HTA) Officials have not released the name of the accused at this time. He was held for a bail hearing. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6 Source: April 15, 2026 – Belleville Police Service

| Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | Initial reports of minor shaking came from the Madoc area on Tuesday, April 14th, 2026, following a small earthquake in western Quebec. According to Earthquakes Canada, the quake was measured at a magnitude of 3.9 and occurred at approximately 12:36 p.m. , with its epicentre located near the Ontario–Quebec border, northeast of Shawville, Quebec. The tremor was felt lightly across parts of eastern Ontario, including Madoc in Hastings County. No Reports of Damage There have been no reports of injuries or damage , and events of this size are not unusual for the region. A magnitude of 3.9 for an earthquake is generally considered minor , and while it can sometimes be felt indoors, it rarely causes any issues. Routine Seismic Activity Eastern Ontario is within range of the Western Quebec Seismic Zone, where small, occasional earthquakes can occur. Most pass without incident and are only briefly noticed by residents. Officials have not indicated any concerns related to this event. Further updates will be provided if new information becomes available. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

| Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | A Liberal majority government has now been established in Canada, prompting discussion about how the country is governed and how political power is formed. The Liberal Party of Canada, led by Mark Carney, now holds enough seats in the House of Commons to pass legislation without support from other parties. This position was reached through a combination of by-election outcomes and Members of Parliament changing party affiliation. What a Majority Government Means A majority government in Canada means the governing party controls more than half of the seats in Parliament. This allows legislation and budgets to move forward more directly and provides a stable governing structure. It also reduces the need for support from opposition parties when decisions are made. Concerns Raised by Opposition The process leading to this majority has become part of the national conversation. Conservative Party of Canada leader Pierre Poilievre has raised concerns about how the outcome was reached, stating that the majority did not come through a general election and accusing Prime Minister Mark Carney of forming it through what he described as “backroom deals with politicians who betrayed the people who voted for them.” Other Parties in Parliament Other federal parties continue to play a role in Parliament as the situation develops. The New Democratic Party, the Bloc Québécois, and the Green Party of Canada each represent different perspectives within the current structure. How the System Works Within Canada’s parliamentary system, Members of Parliament are permitted to change party affiliation, and governments can gain or lose strength between elections. While majority governments are most commonly formed through a general election, the current situation falls within the rules of the existing system. Public Discussion Continues The development has led to broader discussion across the country about governance, representation, and the role of voters in shaping Parliament. Members of the public are invited to share their perspectives on this development and its implications. Consideration may be given to whether a majority government should arise exclusively from a general election, or whether the current process reflects the function of Canada’s parliamentary system. Public input remains an important component of the national dialogue as Parliament continues its work. Please let us know your thoughts and share this with others. The more people that are a part of the conversation, the more complete it becomes. What Do You Think? To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

| Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | A 39-year-old Peterborough man remains in custody following an early morning robbery involving a weapon. According to the Peterborough Police Service, officers responded to the area of Sherbrooke Street and George Street North at approximately 3:30 a.m. this morning, Tuesday, April 14th, 2026, after receiving reports of an injured individual. Upon arrival, officers determined that the victim had been struck in the head and had personal property, including a cellular phone and cash, taken during the incident. The victim sustained minor injuries and was transported to Peterborough Regional Health Centre for medical treatment. Police subsequently located a suspect matching the description provided in the vicinity of Bethune Street and Townsend Street, where he was taken into custody without incident. Investigators have indicated that the victim and the accused are believed to be known to one another. As a result of the investigation, the accused has been charged with: Robbery with a weapon – x1 (s. 344(1)(b) of the Criminal Code) He has been held in custody and is scheduled to appear before the court today, April 14th, 2026. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6 Source: Media Release for Tuesday, April 14, 2026 - Peterborough Police

| Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | A 28-year-old woman is facing a theft charge following a shoplifting incident reported at a business in Belleville’s north end. According to Belleville Police, officers were called to the store on April 13th at approximately 6:27 p.m. after staff reported observing a woman conceal merchandise and leave the premises without paying. Police say surveillance footage was reviewed, which allegedly showed the woman placing items into a bag before exiting the store. As a result of the investigation, Mercedes Rushlow-Stratton, age 28, of no fixed address, was located and taken into custody. She has been charged with theft under $5,000. The accused was later released on an undertaking and is scheduled to appear in court in June. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

| Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | A suspected impaired driver was arrested early Saturday morning after a single-vehicle crash and a brief foot pursuit involving Belleville Police Service. Police say the incident occurred at approximately 1:44 a.m. near Old Highway 2 and Point Anne Road, where officers responded to reports of a vehicle swerving into oncoming traffic. According to investigators, the vehicle subsequently left the roadway and collided with a hydro pole. Upon arrival, officers observed the driver exiting the vehicle and fleeing the scene on foot. A short pursuit followed, during which the suspect reportedly jumped over a fence before being taken into custody a short distance away. Police have identified the accused as Isaac Wing, age 21, of Belleville. Charges Laid Following the investigation, Wing was charged with: Obstruct a peace officer Operation while impaired - alcohol Operation while impaired - blood alcohol concentration over 80 mg Novice driver - blood alcohol concentration above zero (Highway Traffic Act) He was later released on an undertaking and is scheduled to appear in court in June. Safety Reminder Police are reminding the public that impaired driving remains a serious safety risk, particularly during late-night hours when visibility is reduced and reaction times are critical. Drivers are urged to plan ahead by arranging sober transportation, using rideshare services, or designating a driver. Authorities continue to emphasize that even small amounts of alcohol can impair judgment, especially for novice drivers, who are legally required to maintain a zero blood alcohol level under Ontario law. Arrive Alive, Drive Sober To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

| Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | Residents along the Trent River are being urged to take immediate precautions as a Flood Warning has replaced the previous Flood Watch , indicating conditions have worsened since the previous Flood Watch. Residents can view the official statement from Lower Trent Conservation here: https://ltc.on.ca/water_bulletins/flood-warning-trent-river/ Communities Affected The Flood Warning applies to Rice Lake and Trent River from Hastings to Trenton , affecting municipalities including Brighton, Quinte West, Stirling-Rawdon, Trent Hills, and Alnwick-Haldimand , as well as Northumberland and Hastings Counties . Lower Trent Conservation confirms that rising water levels are being driven by ongoing snowmelt and incoming rainfall. Significant precipitation is expected, with heavy rainfall and potential thunderstorms increasing the risk of rapidly rising water levels. With additional rainfall and continued melting of remaining snowpack, water levels and flows are expected to increase further over the coming days , placing added pressure on the system. What Residents Should Do Ensure sump pumps are working Secure boats, docks, and other loose items Monitor water levels closely Prepare for flooding of low-lying areas on their property Avoid dams, culverts, and bridges , as conditions in these areas can become extremely dangerous. Keep children and pets away from all waterways. Fast-moving, cold water poses a serious and immediate risk. Lower Trent Conservation continues to monitor conditions closely. With more rain expected, the situation may change quickly. Supporting Our Community Flooding can have a serious impact on seniors, individuals with disabilities, and other vulnerable residents. According to the Municipality of Trent Hills website: https://www.trenthills.ca/home-property-roads/emergency-services/water-levels/ Sandbags may be available at designated locations, however the municipality does not provide sand, fill bags, or assist on private property. Residents are responsible for protecting their own homes. Donations from this article will go toward local flood relief efforts, helping provide essential support and resources to those most affected. The donation link is available down below. Link for donations: Flood Relief Fund Share & Stay Informed Conditions are expected to change rapidly. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and share this information to help keep others prepared. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6