FRAUD FRIDAY: Distraction fraud

July 25, 2025

The Thunder Bay Police Service is continuing to raise awareness of fraud schemes and scams that target local residents.


Distraction fraud is a tactic used by scammers where they’ll identify targets about to use a debit or credit card, such as in a store making a purchase or at an ATM. It’s common for the scheme to have multiple individuals involved and to target elderly victims.


With this fraud, perpetrators will observe their targets entering the PIN of their debit or credit cards and may discretely use video recordings to detect the number.


Then, the perpetrators will distract the victim while the card is stolen. The card, with the PIN, is then quickly used to withdraw cash or make high-value purchases.


Anyone who has had a debit or credit card lost or stolen should contact their financial institution immediately to prevent someone else from being able to access funds.


The Thunder Bay Police Service’s Economic Crime Unit urges residents to speak to family members and friends who may be vulnerable to being targeted by fraud.


Prevention is the best protection against fraud.


If you are concerned about potential scams and want to learn more, please visit https://www.thunderbaypolice.ca/safety/fraud-prevention or contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (http://www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/)


To make a fraud/cyber crime online report to the Thunder Bay Police Service, please visit: https://www.services.tryrubicon.com/thunder-bay-police-service/online-reports/report/fraud-cybercrime

Thunder Bay Police Service Gala Tickets set to go on sale

December 16, 2025
The Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) is pleased to announce the launch of ticket sales for its Inaugural Gala. The Gala is taking place at the Italian Cultural Centre on February 28, 2026. “This special event honours heroes and empowers community by raising funds for two remarkable charities,” said TBPS Chief Darcy Fleury. “The members of the Thunder Bay Police Service deserve to be celebrated. This community deserves to be celebrated. And these two vital organizations deserve our collective support.” The charity event will bring together community members in support of two valued local organizations: Special Olympics Thunder Bay and the Boys and Girls Club (BGC) Thunder Bay, while recognizing the dedication and work our officers perform in the community. Special Olympics Thunder Bay empowers athletes with intellectual disabilities through inclusive sport programming. BGC fosters a sense of belonging and growth for youth aged 4–18 through enriching activities and community engagement. Tickets for the event can be found by clicking here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/thunder-bay-police-services-gala-2026-tickets-1864559741379?aff=oddtdtcreator The event is still accepting sponsors and more information can be found by clicking here: https://www.thunderbaypolice.ca/about-us/2026-tbps-gala

Cumberland Street North Collision

December 12, 2025
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Passing of former Chief J.P. Levesque

December 12, 2025
The Thunder Bay Police Service joins our community in mourning the passing of former Chief J.P. Levesque. We offer our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who knew and respected him. Chief Levesque dedicated more than three decades to policing in Thunder Bay, beginning his career with the TBPS and later stepping into the role of Chief in 2011. He served with integrity and a strong commitment to the people of this community. His retirement in 2018 marked the conclusion of a remarkable 31-year career. Throughout his service, Chief Levesque was known for his leadership, professionalism, and steady presence. His contributions to community safety will continue to be remembered.