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| Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | A Belleville man is facing charges after police responded to a report of a suspected impaired driver over the weekend. On Saturday, March 28th, at approximately 6:44 p.m., officers with Belleville Police were called after a male was observed slumped over in the driver’s seat of a vehicle. When officers arrived, they located the parked vehicle and knocked on the driver’s side window in an attempt to wake the individual. Police say that once the male was awakened, officers observed signs consistent with impairment. During their investigation, drug paraphernalia was also seen inside the vehicle. Article Continues As a result, Jordan Wood, age 34, of Belleville, was arrested and charged with operation while impaired, alcohol, and drugs. He was later released on an undertaking and is scheduled to appear in court in May. The investigation remains ongoing. Please do not drink & drive. 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 advised to use caution as a Flood Watch has been issued, with water levels continuing to rise. Residents can view the official Flood Watch statement from Lower Trent Conservation here: https://ltc.on.ca/water_bulletins/flood-watch-statement-trent-river-04/ Lower Trent Conservation says recent precipitation and snowmelt have led to elevated water levels, with further increases expected. Water control measures, including overflow systems, are in use across the Trent-Severn system to manage the volume. With parts of the system nearing capacity and additional snowmelt still expected, any forecasted rainfall could worsen conditions. Minor to moderate flooding is possible , particularly in low-lying areas. This may impact roads, yards, and basements near the river. What Residents Should Do Ensure sump pumps are working Secure boats, docks, and property near water Monitor water levels closely Prepare for potential water encroachment Avoid dams, culverts, and bridges ; these areas can become dangerous quickly. Keep children and pets away from all waterways. Fast-moving, cold water can become life-threatening within seconds. Supporting Our Community Flooding can significantly impact seniors, individuals with disabilities, and other vulnerable residents. According to the Municipality of Trent Hills Website "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." All donations from this article will go directly toward local flood relief efforts if needed, helping provide support and essential resources to those most affected. The donation link is available down below. Flood Relief Fund: https://square.link/u/PRC24dZy Lower Trent Conservation continues to monitor conditions. Trent River remains under a Flood Watch. 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 to Bill C-15 | Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | Bill C-15 has now passed the Senate and is one step closer to becoming law. But for many Canadians, the real question isn’t just what’s in the bill, it’s what it all means. At more than 600 pages, this isn’t a simple piece of legislation. Bill C-15 is what’s known as the budget implementation bill, meaning it brings together a wide range of changes all at once, from taxes and housing to banking, infrastructure, and government powers. And while there’s a lot inside it, one part has quickly taken centre stage: high-speed rail. 🚄 High-Speed Rail (ALTO Project) If you’ve heard anything about Bill C-15, chances are it’s about the proposed high-speed rail line between Ontario and Quebec, often referred to as the ALTO project. The bill is designed to move this project forward faster by cutting down on some of the usual approval steps. Certain federal requirements are treated as already completed, although environmental assessments are still required. In simple terms, the goal is to stop the years of waiting and actually get the project moving. For some, that’s a welcome change. Canada has a reputation for studying projects longer than building them, and this could be a step toward finally seeing real progress. But others are asking: If things move faster, are we skipping over important checks and public input along the way? ⚖️ Government Powers: Flexibility or Concern? Another part of the bill that’s getting attention is the government’s ability to temporarily bypass certain rules. Bill C-15 allows ministers to temporarily avoid or enact certain regulations to support innovation and economic growth. This could apply to areas like clean technology or financial services. The idea is fairly straightforward: If the rules are slowing things down, the government can temporarily step around them. Supporters might say this is necessary in today’s fast-moving world. But it also raises a fair question: How much flexibility is too much, and who decides when it’s used? 💰 Tax Changes: Who Benefits? There are also several tax changes built into the bill. These include: Higher capital gains exemptions Large tax-free allowances for certain business sales Expanded credits for things like research, workers, and accessibility For business owners and investors, this could mean keeping more of what they earn. For others, it raises a broader concern: Are these changes helping the overall economy, or benefiting certain groups more than others? 🏠 Housing: Will It Make a Difference? Housing is another major focus. The bill introduces incentives to build more rental housing and removes the underused housing tax moving forward. The approach here is clear: Build more homes, increase supply, and ease pressure on the market. But for people currently struggling with rent or home prices, the question becomes: Will these changes actually help in the near future, or is the impact still too far away? 🌐 Removing Taxes: Relief or Trade-Off? Bill C-15 also removes several taxes, including: The digital services tax The underused housing tax (going forward) Certain luxury taxes Supporters may see this as cutting unnecessary costs and encouraging investment. Others may ask: If these taxes are gone, where does that lost revenue get made up? 🌱 Clean Energy and Industry The bill also puts a strong focus on clean energy. It expands tax credits for: Clean electricity Carbon capture Manufacturing tied to green technology These incentives stretch well into the future, signaling a long-term shift. For some, this is a step in the right direction. For others, it raises questions about cost, effectiveness, and whether these investments will deliver real results. 💸 Government Spending Bill C-15 also authorizes billions in spending, especially for housing and infrastructure. Large investments like this often come down to perspective: Some see it as necessary to fix long-standing issues. Others ask: How will this money be used, and will it actually make a difference? 🏦 Banking and Your Data Another change that could affect Canadians more directly over time is in banking. The bill introduces consumer-driven banking, which allows people to share their financial data with approved services. This could lead to: More financial tools More competition between providers But it also comes with an obvious question: How secure is that data, and who ultimately controls it? 🧠 The Bigger Picture When you step back, Bill C-15 isn’t just about one issue. It reflects a broader approach designed to supposedly: Move projects faster Give the government more flexibility Encourage growth through incentives For some, that sounds like progress. For others, it raises concerns about balance, especially when so many changes are bundled into one bill. 📍 What Happens Next Even though Bill C-15 has passed the Senate, it has not yet received Royal Assent , meaning it is not law just yet. If that final step is completed, some parts will take effect quickly, while others will roll out over time. 🗣️ What Do You Think? Bill C-15 is a lot to take in, and opinions are already forming. Do you support fast-tracking projects like high-speed rail, or should more time be taken for review? Do these tax changes help the economy, or do they benefit some more than others? Is giving the government more flexibility a smart move, or a risky one? Let us know what you think. These are the kinds of decisions that affect everyone. 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 routine traffic stop in Cobourg has led to multiple charges against a local man after police say a stolen vehicle and controlled substances were discovered. During the stop, police determined the vehicle involved had previously been reported stolen. The driver, identified as a 51-year-old Cobourg man, was arrested at the scene without incident. Following the arrest, officers carried out a search of the vehicle. Police report that a quantity of a Schedule IV controlled substance was located. Investigators also seized several key fobs, many of which are believed to be associated with luxury vehicles. As a result of the investigation, the accused is facing the following charges: Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000 Fraudulent Concealment Possession of a Schedule IV Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking Possession of a Device for the Purpose of Committing Theft Operate Motor Vehicle on a Highway Without Insurance Drive Motor Vehicle Without a Valid Permit Two counts of Failure to Comply with a Release Order Police have not released further details or the identity of the accused at this time. The investigation remains ongoing 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 | Belleville Police provided an update today, March 27th, regarding a lockdown that occurred on March 26th at Centennial Secondary School. According to police, officers were called to the school after receiving a report of an individual believed to be in possession of a firearm inside the building. Police attended the scene and located a male youth nearby. He was taken into custody without incident. Investigators later confirmed the firearm involved was a replica. Officers also reported seizing several knives. Through the investigation, police say the youth had allegedly displayed what appeared to be a firearm to others while keeping it concealed under his clothing. It is further alleged that threats were made, including statements instructing others not to leave the area. As a result, a 15-year-old male from Belleville has been charged with multiple offences. The name of the accused has not been released in accordance with the Youth Criminal Justice Act. Charges include: Uttering threats to cause death or bodily harm (two counts) Assault with a weapon (two counts) Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose Using an imitation firearm while committing an offence Forcible confinement Police confirm the accused was held in custody pending a bail hearing. What families should know We can confirm communication has already been sent to parents and guardians from the school. Families are advised to check both their inbox and spam folders for their email. This matter remains before the courts, and no further details have been released at this time. 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: March 27, 2026 – Belleville Police Service

| Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | Five individuals have been charged following a police operation in Trent Hills that resulted in the seizure of firearms, suspected drugs, and a significant amount of cash. Police report that members of the Peterborough/Northumberland Community Street Crime Unit, with support from the Ontario Provincial Police K9 Unit, executed a search warrant at a residence on Grand Road. As officers searched the property, they located ammunition, a ballistic vest, approximately $1,000 in cash, and an estimated 170 grams of suspected cocaine. During the operation, one individual allegedly fled from officers and discarded a loaded handgun. Police later recovered the firearm that was discharged. In a related development, officers conducted a traffic stop in the nearby area. Police say one of the occupants in the vehicle was wanted on outstanding warrants. A search of the vehicle led to the discovery of a second loaded handgun, roughly 310 grams of suspected cocaine, and more than $10,000 in cash. The investigation resulted in the arrest of five individuals, all of whom now face multiple charges. Justin Moore, 27, of Campbellford, has been charged with: trafficking drugs possession of a loaded firearm multiple counts of possessing firearms or ammunition while prohibited and possession of property obtained by crime. Natasha Johnson, 37, also of Campbellford, is facing charges that include: drug trafficking possession of a loaded firearm and possession of property obtained by crime. , Ryan Robertson 44, of Campbellford, has been charged with; drug trafficking firearm-related offences and possession of property obtained by crime. Jahnye Henricks, 31, of no fixed address, faces several charges, including; unauthorized possession of a firearm drug trafficking careless transportation of a firearm and being in a vehicle while aware of the presence of a firearm. Nathalie Tran, 37, of Oshawa, is also facing charges related to firearms drug trafficking careless transportation of a firearm and being in a vehicle while knowing a firearm was present. All five accused were held in custody and are scheduled to appear for bail hearings before the Ontario Court of Justice in Cobourg. Police have not released additional details at this time. Photo Courtesy of OPP The investigation remains ongoing 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: Harrison Perkins - Peterborough/Kawartha Lakes

| Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | On March 22nd, 2026, Cobourg Police Service responded to a reported shoplifting incident in progress at a business located on Elgin Street West, leading to the arrest of two adults and one youth in connection with what investigators describe as organized retail crime. According to police, the incident occurred at approximately 4:00 p.m., when store staff reported that three individuals had left the location with a shopping cart full of unpaid merchandise. Employees were able to provide officers with both a description of the suspect vehicle and CCTV footage to assist in the investigation. Police later located the vehicle and observed one of the suspects removing licence plates. Officers conducted a traffic stop and safely took all three individuals into custody. A search of the vehicle reportedly revealed a large quantity of grocery items believed to be stolen. Investigators also determined that the license plates associated with the vehicle were linked to other organized crime-related incidents in different jurisdictions. As a result of the investigation: A 32-year-old woman from Toronto A 21-year-old woman from Scarborough A 14-year-old youth from Toronto have each been charged with: Theft under $5,000 Possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000 In addition, the 32-year-old woman faces several further charges, including: Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime over $5,000 Use of a plate not authorized for the vehicle Dangerous operation of a motor vehicle Operating a motor vehicle without insurance Making a false statement Failing to apply for a permit upon becoming an owner Police confirmed the youth was released to the care of a family member. The two adult accused were held for a bail hearing and were later released under conditions as part of a release order. Ongoing Impact of Organized Retail Crime Police emphasize that retail theft is not a victimless offence. Incidents of this nature can contribute to increased prices, safety concerns for staff and customers, and broader impacts on local businesses and communities. The Cobourg Police Service states it remains committed to addressing organized retail crime through continued investigations and collaboration with retailers and partner agencies. The Investigation remains ongoing 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 Belleville woman is facing multiple charges following a reported domestic incident that has left one individual injured and property damaged. According to the Belleville Police Service, officers spoke with a male on March 25th, 2026, regarding an incident reported to have occurred on March 20th. Police say a verbal altercation between the male and a female escalated during the incident. The female allegedly struck the male in the head and stabbed him with a pair of scissors. On March 25th, the male returned to his residence and discovered that several personal belongings had been damaged. As a result of the investigation, a 50-year-old Belleville woman was arrested and charged with: Assault – spousal Assault with a weapon – spousal Mischief under $5,000 (two counts) The accused was held in custody pending a bail hearing. No further details have been released at this time. A Community Reminder Incidents involving domestic conflict can have serious and lasting impacts. Situations like these are often complex and deeply personal, affecting not only those directly involved but also the wider community. Support is available for individuals experiencing domestic violence. In an emergency, call 9-1-1. For non-emergency support, residents can dial 211  or visit 211.ca  to connect with local social services and confidential support resources. If you or someone you know is going through a difficult situation, please remember you are not alone. There are people in this community who care and are ready to listen, support, and help you take the next step when you’re ready. The Investigation Remains Ongoing 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: March 26, 2026 – Belleville Police Service

Listen Live: Quinte, Northumberland, and Surrounding Areas, Emergency Scanner Feed - Live 24/7 - YouTube | Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | Several young people are facing charges following three separate assault incidents involving teenage victims on Tuesday, March 24th, 2026. According to police, the incidents occurred throughout the evening, starting around 5:30 p.m. near the food court at Lansdowne Place Mall, where a 15-year-old boy was attacked. A second incident took place at the same location around 6:40 p.m. A different 15-year-old boy was reportedly lured outside and assaulted. Police report that the victim was hit by one person and bear-sprayed by another, while others recorded the event. The victim was taken to Peterborough Regional Health Centre for treatment. Through their investigation, police identified five individuals connected to this incident. Later that evening, around 9:00 p.m., officers responded to an assault report in a parking lot on Chemong Road. Two masked individuals allegedly attacked a 15-year-old boy using brass knuckles. The victim received treatment at the scene from paramedics. Police confirmed this victim was the same individual involved in the earlier incident, and that the suspects were linked across multiple events. As a result of the investigation: A 13-year-old male from Peterborough has been charged in connection with all three incidents. He faces several charges, including assault with a weapon, assault causing bodily harm, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, disguise with intent, unauthorized possession of a weapon, and failure to comply with probation orders. Police stated the accused was already under court-ordered conditions at the time. He remains in custody and is set to appear in court today, March 25th, 2026. An 18-year-old male from Peterborough has been charged in connection with the second and third incidents. His charges include assault, assault with a weapon, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, assault causing bodily harm, disguise with intent, and unauthorized possession of a weapon. He is in custody and will appear in court on March 25th, 2026. A 15-year-old male from Peterborough has been charged in connection with the second incident with assault, disguise with intent, and failure to comply with a probation order. Police noted the accused was under conditions not to contact one of the other accused. He is in custody and will appear in court on March 25th, 2026. A 14-year-old female and another 15-year-old male, both from Peterborough, have each been charged in connection with the second incident with assault with a weapon as a party to the offence. Both have been released on undertakings and are scheduled to appear in court on May 4, 2026. The names of the accused have not been disclosed in accordance with the Youth Criminal Justice Act, which protects the identities of young persons involved. Police continue to investigate and are requesting anyone with information to come forward. 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: Peterborough Police Service

| Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | The Canadian Armed Forces will be conducting transportation and supply movements between various Ontario communities as part of a large-scale training operation. Convoys are expected to travel along major highways from March 27th through to March 29th . Routes include key corridors such as Highways 7, 17, 26, 41, 55, 115, 401, 416, and the 417 , which may impact travel throughout areas surrounding Quinte West, Belleville, and Northumberland County. Nearby regions, including Peterborough, may also see some activity as part of the broader operation. The increased presence is tied to Exercise WOLF AMBUSH , a brigade-level military training exercise designed to simulate real-world combat conditions and enhance operational readiness for both domestic and international deployments. Military units participating in the exercise include personnel from multiple Ontario-based communities, covering a range of roles such as infantry, artillery, engineering, and communications. Officials say approximately 300 soldiers and their equipment  will be transported using military vehicles and buses. Short, planned stops will take place along travel routes for refueling, rest, and vehicle maintenance. Members of the public are advised that while military vehicles will be visible, no weapons or ammunition will be carried during public-facing transport stops . Drivers are encouraged to remain alert when encountering convoys and to give them additional space on roadways. While efforts are being made to minimize disruption, brief delays or slowdowns may occur along major highways and connecting routes in the region. Authorities are thanking residents in advance for their patience and cooperation. We want to be clear, there is no threat to public safety. Original Statement Share this article to help keep your community informed as military traffic increases across local highways. 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 | Reader discretion is advised. A Belleville resident is facing multiple charges following a child luring investigation led by the Prince Edward County Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police. According to police, the investigation began in mid-March after reports were received involving alleged luring and sexual offences. Officers launched an investigation, which has now resulted in charges being laid. As a result, 32-year-old Kaitlin Farrell of Belleville has been charged with several offences under the Criminal Code, including; sexual assault on a person under the age of 16 sexual interference luring a person under 16 years of age by means of telecommunication invitation to sexual touching under 16 years of age. Article Continues

| Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | Belleville Police have confirmed new details in a media release today, March 23rd, 2026, following a fatal motor vehicle collision that occurred over the weekend on Dundas Street West. Emergency crews, including Belleville Police, Fire, and Hastings Quinte Paramedics, were called to the scene shortly after 11:25 p.m. on March 21st, where a serious collision had taken place. A 19-year-old Belleville man was located inside a vehicle and required extrication. He was transported to Kingston General Hospital with life-threatening injuries. Police have since confirmed that the victim, identified as Samuel Brown, succumbed to those injuries on the afternoon of March 22nd. As a result of the ongoing investigation, John Golka, age 49, of Quinte West, has been arrested and charged in connection with the incident. He was held in custody pending a bail hearing. At this time, investigators have not released further details surrounding the circumstances of the collision. The investigation remains active, and Belleville Police say additional updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Our thoughts are with the family, friends, and all those affected by this tragic loss. 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/march-23-26/