Cyber Crime project results in 12 arrests
February 5, 2025
An extensive investigation into the non-consensual sharing of intimate content has resulted in 12 people being arrested and facing a total of 172 charges.
The Thunder Bay Police Service Cyber Crime Unit began investigating in 2023 after learning that multiple women in Thunder Bay had been having their images shared through groups in an online chat platform.
As a result of the investigation, a total of 117 victims have been identified, which also includes victims in at least three other countries and across Canada.
Investigators obtained 26 production orders, 18 search warrants, and 15 general warrants. The investigation has resulted in nearly 600 exhibits being seized.
The accused individuals have turned themselves in to police and are expected to appear in court on Wednesday. More details about the individuals arrested and charges will be made available following court appearances.
Anyone with information that could assist investigators is asked to please contact Detective Constable Joel Manherz at (807) 684-1200 ext. 4115. Tips can be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, online at www.p3tips.com.
Requests for media interviews can be submitted through the Media Relations Coordinator
The Thunder Bay Police Service announced today that a total of $68,502.50 was raised for two local charities through the Thunder Bay Police Service Inaugural Charity Gala. On February 28, 2026, more than 270 guests came together for an evening dedicated to honouring the Service’s members and strengthening the bonds that unite the community, while raising money for two incredible local organizations - Special Olympics Thunder Bay and the Boys and Girls Club of Thunder Bay. “I am grateful to everyone who committed early to this vision, to the many businesses and community members who contributed, to everyone who attended, and to those who worked tirelessly to bring this event to life,” said Thunder Bay Police Chief Darcy Fleury. “The men and women of the Thunder Bay Police Service deserve to be celebrated. This community deserves to be celebrated. And these two outstanding charitable organizations deserve support. Together, we are helping ensure they can carry their important work forward,” Fleury added. Albert Aiello, Chief Executive Officer, Boys and Girls Club - BGC Thunder Bay said, “These funds directly empower local youth—helping them build confidence, access opportunities, and succeed in our community. I extend my sincere thanks to the Thunder Bay Police Service for their incredible support through the charity gala.” Cody Jansma, President & CEO of Special Olympics Ontario, noted that the funds raised are critical to support local athletes in Thunder Bay compete in 19 official sports, year-round. “We sincerely thank Chief Fluery and the Thunder Bay Police Service for an impactful charity gala. Our relationship with TBPS goes back 30+ years and we are indebted to their past, present and future support of our athletes. Travel costs to competitions are rising and we couldn’t offer world-class sporting opportunities without fundraisers like this Gala. Thank you for being champions of acceptance and inclusion!” said Jansma. The Gala reflects the strength of our community and the power of partnership. The funds were raised through the generosity of sponsors including RBC, Motorola, Firedog Communications, and Acadia Broadcasting. A significant donation of artwork from the Estate of Norval Morrisseau enhanced fundraising efforts, as did contributions of auction items from several local businesses. As a result, two charities will receive more than $33,500 to help local children and youth reach their full potential. The Thunder Bay Police Service remains committed to working alongside local organizations to create positive, lasting impact.
TB25005649 A Thunder Bay Police Service investigation into elder abuse has resulted in charges. The investigation began on February 11, 2025, after the Crimes Against Seniors’ Division received a report about an incident that took place on January 30, 2025 at a long-term care facility in Thunder Bay. An 86-year-old resident sustained injuries while in the care of a staff member. Additional unrelated and unreported injuries were later confirmed. No documentation of the injuries was located by officers. The victim died on March 06, 2025 as a result of the injuries. The Thunder Bay Police Service investigation identified the long-term care facility failed to take the reasonable steps to prevent any serious bodily harm or death to residents and attempted to delay and obstruct a police investigation. As a result of the investigation, Marina GILBERT, 52, of Thunder Bay, has been charged with Criminal Negligence Causing Death contrary to section 220 of the Criminal Code. Furthermore, Pioneer Ridge Long Term Care Home has also been charged with: • Criminal Negligence Causing Death contrary to section 220 of the Criminal Code • Obstructing Justice contrary to section 139(2) of the Criminal Code The investigation is ongoing and no further information is available at this time. Anyone with information - particularly from the period of December 19, 2024 to March 6, 2025 - that could assist investigators is asked to please contact Detective Constable Kevin Middleton at (807) 317-0145. Tips can be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, online at www.p3tips.com . For further information and resources to protect against elder abuse, please visit: https://www.thunderbaypolice.ca/safety/protecting-seniors
TB26009320 A Thunder Bay Police Service drug trafficking investigation has led to charges and the seizure of suspected illegal drugs. The investigation began on January 12, 2026, in response to reports of suspected drug trafficking. On March 12, 2026, Intelligence Unit officers with the assistance of the Emergency Task Unit searched a home in the Algoma Street area. During the search suspected fentanyl, crack cocaine, methamphetamine, cash, a stun gun and items associated with drug trafficking were seized. As a result of the investigation, 48-year-old Robert NICHOLSON and 40-year-old Courtney VANDENBROEKE, both from Thunder Bay are facing the following charges: • Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime under $5,000 • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – cocaine • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – opioid • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – methamphetamine • Unauthorized possession of weapon NICHOLSON has also been charged with two failure to comply with a release order charges. Both of the accused were remanded into custody after their first court appearance.
