Fraud Friday: Driveway Paving Scam

June 5, 2026

With the first day of Summer just around the corner, the Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) is warning residents about driveway paving scams.
 
Although TBPS has not received any reports of driveway paving scams so far this year, other police services in Ontario have.
 
Residents are urged to be cautious of individuals posing as legitimate contractors offering unsolicited paving services. These individuals often claim to have “leftover asphalt” from another job and offer discounted, same day work.
 
They may also push for cash only payments or use high pressure tactics to secure quick agreements.
 
These offers frequently result in poor quality work, inflated prices, or unfinished jobs, with the individuals leaving the area shortly afterward.
 
Residents are encouraged to: 
• Request written estimates and contracts before agreeing to any work 
• Report suspicious activity to the Thunder Bay Police Service
 
Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 1 800 222 8477 or online at www.p3tips.com.
 

Missing Person: Jayla DEVENTE, 15

June 5, 2026
TB26021102 The Thunder Bay Police Service is requesting the public’s assistance in locating 15-year-old Jayla DEVENTE. Jayla was last seen on June 3, 2026, around 3:30 PM. DEVENTE is described as a white female, standing 5’5”, weighing approximately 160 lbs, with long dark brown and burgundy hair, and blue eyes. She was last seen wearing a black Adidas sweater and grey sweatpants. 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.

Drug trafficking investigation results in seizure of illicit drugs and two firearms

June 3, 2026
TB26020832 and TB26020814 A Thunder Bay Police Service drug trafficking investigation has led to the seizure of illicit drugs and two firearms. As part of the investigation, the Emergency Task Unit and Intelligence Unit searched two homes on Finlayson Street. During the searches suspected fentanyl, crack cocaine, cocaine, and two guns were seized. The total street value of the drugs is approximately $19,755. As a result of the investigation, 47-year-old David CAKE of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: Possession of firearm or ammunition contrary to prohibition order (six counts) 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 proceeds of property obtained by crime over $5,000 Knowledge of unauthorized possession of firearm (two counts) Careless storage of firearm, weapon, prohibited device or ammunition (two counts) Unauthorized possession of a firearm (two counts) Possession of prohibited or restricted firearm with ammo Douglas SHAFRANSKI, a 47-year-old from Thunder Bay, and Saceriya MOHAMED, a 31-year-old of Toronto, are also 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 CAKE was remanded into custody following his first court appearance. SHAFRANSKI and MOHAMED were both released from custody with a future court date.

Thunder Bay Police Service investigation leads to charges

June 1, 2026
TB26020163 A Thunder Bay Police Service investigation into multiple assaults has led to charges. Officers with the Primary Response Unit responded to reports of an assault in the Red River Road area, on May 29, 2026, just after 1:00 PM with the assistance of the Emergency Task Unit which was on patrol as part of Project Support. On scene officers located an individual with injuries consistent with a stabbing. The individual attended a local hospital for treatment of their injuries. Officers were able to identify, locate, and arrest a suspect nearby. Further investigation led to additional victims being identified. No additional injuries were reported. As a result of this investigation, 54-year-old Stephane ST-CYR of Quebec is facing the following charges: • Aggravated assault • Assault with a weapon (two counts) • Possession of weapon for a dangerous purpose The accused was remanded into custody following their first court appearance.