Fraud Friday: Distraction Thefts

October 17, 2025

Distraction thefts continue to pose a public safety concern. How it works: Thieves will often target elderly individuals while out shopping or in residential neighborhoods, using surprise tactics or friendly gestures—like hugs or handshakes—to distract their victims and steal jewelry, money, or other valuables.

 

These crimes are quick, calculated, and often go unnoticed until it’s too late.

 

Protect Yourself & Support Investigations 

• Keep your distance: Never let strangers into your personal space. Do not allow them to touch or hug you.

• Stay alert: Be vigilant at all times—even when doing routine tasks like gardening or going for a walk.

• Draw attention: If you feel you're being targeted, yell or make loud noises to attract attention and scare the suspect away.

• Report suspicious behavior: Call 911 immediately if you notice suspicious activity. Try to memorize or write down the suspect’s vehicle license plate and share it with police.

• Act fast: If you’re a victim of a distraction theft, don’t delay—call 911 right away. The sooner police are notified, the greater the chances of catching the suspects.

 

Thunder Bay Police Service Communications Centre launches new text‑message program

April 8, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service Communications Centre has launched a new text‑message program designed to enhance how our 911 operators connect with the community. This initiative opens an additional, modern line of communication, allowing callers to receive timely, accurate information directly to their mobile devices while our 911 operators manage their emergency call. Through this system, Communications Centre staff can send both automated and dispatcher‑crafted messages that deliver clear, essential guidance. These may include: • Vehicle collision self‑reporting instructions with a direct link • Updates such as “Police have been dispatched, please watch for them.” • A list of available tow truck companies • Notifications advising callers that their request has been forwarded to the Thunder Bay Police Service Callback Unit Text messages from the program will be received from a local 807 number. Callers are only able to receive information over text. Residents should continue to call 911 to speak to an operator or 807-684-1200 for non-emergencies. By offering real‑time information and reducing the need for follow‑up calls, this program strengthens service delivery, eases call volume, and ensures residents receive the support they need. “Our Communications Centre is always looking for ways to evolve with the needs of the community,” said Thunder Bay Police Service Communication Centre Manager Megan Petzel. “Adding a text message option enhances the tools we already use and allows us to deliver information in more ways to meet people’s expectations and preferences.” The change is aimed at supplementing our existing Communication Centre services.

Primary Response Unit investigation leads to charges

April 7, 2026
TB26012417 A Thunder Bay Police Service response to a call for service has resulted in charges. Officers with the Primary Response Unit were sent to Oliver Road on the evening of April 4, 2026, in response to a report of an assault. Two injured individuals were located and transported to a local hospital for treatment. Further investigation led to a suspect being identified and located. As a result of the investigation, 27-year-old Scotlund CROMPTON from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Assault with a weapon • Aggravated assault • Assault causing bodily harm • Fail to comply with release order • Fail to comply with probation order The accused was remanded into custody with a future court date.

Update - Missing Person - Daniela NEKULIAK, 62

April 2, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service is continuing to request the public's assistance in locating missing person, Daniela NEKULIAK, 62. Today marks three-weeks since she was last seen. Investigators issued a Northwestern Ontario Region bulletin to all police services in Ontario on March 19, 2026, and continue to follow up on any leads from the community. The investigation remains ongoing. Daniela was last seen on Algoma Street North walking towards Boulevard Lake around 9:30 AM on the morning of March 12, 2026. She is described as a female, that stands roughly 5'4'’ tall with a medium build. She has medium-length grey hair, and brown eyes. If a member of the public spots Daniela, they are asked to call 911. To report any other information regarding the whereabouts of this missing person, please contact the Thunder Bay Police Service at (807) 684-1200.