Cybercrime investigation leads to charges

December 9, 2025

TB25044096

A cybercrime investigation in Thunder Bay has led to child sexual abuse and exploitation material (CSAEM) charges.
 
The investigation got underway in response to a report of a local resident accessing and possessing CSAEM in October.
 
The investigation led to a search warrant being executed on the city’s south end in December.
 
During the search electronic devices and print media were seized.
 
One suspect was also located and arrested.
 
As a result, 50-year-old Eric John MORRISSEAU is facing the following charges:
 
• Access child sexual abuse and exploitation material
 
• Possession of child sexual abuse and exploitation material
 
• Making child sexual abuse and exploitation material
 
The accused remains in custody with a future court date.
 
Anyone with information that could assist investigators is asked to please contact Detective Constable Brian STEWART at (807) 696-0192.
 
The Thunder Bay Police Service recognizes that parents and caregivers are the frontline when it comes to protecting children on the Internet and electronic devices.
 
We encourage you to remain vigilant in your efforts.
 
Tips for talking to your kids can be found, and reporting of any online exploitation can also be made, at Canada’s National Tipline for Reporting the Online Sexual Exploitation of Children at cybertip.ca.
 
There are also resources available through the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health for those who have a sexual interest in children.
 
The new Talking for Change (https://talkingforchange.ca/) program is the first of its kind in Canada and provides national and all-ages help for those concerned about their risk to use child sexual exploitation material or offend sexually against a child.
 
This project has been made possible by a grant from the Ministry of the Solicitor General.
 
Tips can be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, online at www.p3tips.com.
 

Update: Missing Person — Richard GRAHAM

May 28, 2026
TB24032007 Richard GRAHAM is no longer the subject of a Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) missing person investigation. This is now a private family matter. The family has granted permission for TBPS to disclose that Richard was located deceased. Please remove his name and images from websites and social media pages. The family wants to extend their appreciation to everyone who was involved in the search efforts. No further information will be released at this time.

Statement from the Chief of Police

May 28, 2026
Our thoughts remain with the families and loved ones facing the uncertainty and heartbreak of a missing persons investigation. I also recognize and sincerely appreciate the efforts of Indigenous searchers, community members, volunteers, Elders, and partner organizations who dedicated significant time and care to supporting recent searches. Recent comments made by Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) Grand Chief Fiddler do not accurately reflect the Thunder Bay Police Service’s efforts or commitment. Our priority remains, and always will be, to locate missing persons and provide answers to families. Our members work diligently—both on the front lines and behind the scenes—and we are grateful for the acknowledgments received from families directly involved. Investigators have been in regular communication with families throughout recent investigations, including multiple updates on a daily basis where appropriate. Families may choose whether or not to include NAN in those discussions. TBPS members hold and value positive relationships with Indigenous leaders and community members, including with employees and program coordinators working for NAN. It is unfortunate the recent comments do not reflect this. While we respect the role of NAN leadership in advocating for its members, inaccurate or incomplete information can undermine trust and impact the willingness of individuals to come forward with information. Some investigations remain ongoing, and information from the community continues to be critical to bring resolution to families. I urge anyone with information—no matter how small—to come forward. I also encourage NAN members in Thunder Bay to continue to contact police when they need assistance, wish to report someone missing, or have information to share. Similarly, MPP Sol Mamakwa’s recent statement at Queen’s Park is misled. The true crisis has long been identified: a serious shortage of social supports, housing, addictions and mental health services, and prevention initiatives that help address the root causes that place vulnerable people at risk. Addressing these issues requires a collective effort with community partners working collaboratively.  Darcy Fleury, M.O.M. Chief of Police Thunder Bay Police Service

Missing Person: Mary GAGNON, 63

May 27, 2026
TB26019537 The Thunder Bay Police Service is requesting the public’s assistance in locating 63-year-old Mary GAGNON. Mary was last seen in the Lillie Street area on May 17, 2026. GAGNON is described as an indigenous female, standing 5’4”, with a heavy build, medium length black hair usually worn in a ponytail, and dark brown eyes. She also wears glasses with black frames. Mary was last seen wearing a pink jacket with black pants. She cannot walk so she utilizes a pink electric scooter. If you have any information about the whereabouts of this missing person, please contact police at (807) 684-1200.  Submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, online at www.p3tips.com .