January 2026

January 8, 2026

Multi-unit calls on the rise


There has been a steady growth in the number of times multiple officers are needed to respond to a call for service. 




Some calls involve a higher risk of harm to the people involved, bystanders, or officers. When there is a possibility of violence, weapons, heightened emotions, or multiple people at a scene, sending more than one officer helps ensure everyone’s safety.

 

Generally, two or more officers respond to calls such as:

  • Weapons-related calls
  • Domestic or intimate partner disputes
  • Mental health or wellness concerns
  • Situations where an arrest may be required
  • Disturbances involving several people

 

These calls can change quickly. Having more than one officer allows police to better manage the situation. While multi-unit responses impact the number of officers available to respond to other calls for service, they support de-escalation and safe, respectful interactions. Some calls involve a higher risk of harm to the people involved, bystanders, or officers. When there is a possibility of violence, weapons, heightened emotions, or multiple people at a scene, sending more than one officer helps ensure everyone’s safety.

 

Generally, two or more officers respond to calls such as:

  • Weapons-related calls
  • Domestic or intimate partner disputes
  • Mental health or wellness concerns
  • Situations where an arrest may be required
  • Disturbances involving several people

 

These calls can change quickly. Having more than one officer allows police to better manage the situation. While multi-unit responses impact the number of officers available to respond to other calls for service, they support de-escalation and safe, respectful interactions.

Why We’re Asking for More Police Resources — and What It Means for Our Community


We know that asking for a budget increase is not easy. It comes from city taxes, and residents deserve to understand why it’s needed and what it delivers.

 

The bottom line is that the community is asking for more police resources, experts agree they’re needed, and the data shows real public safety results.

 


The message from the community is clear.



  •  88% of respondents said the most important actions to improve safety are more police presence and faster response times (TBPS 2024 Community Satisfaction Survey).
  • Residents identified crime as the most important issue facing the city that should receive Council’s attention (City of Thunder Bay 2022 – most recent - Citizen Satisfaction Survey).
  •  An independent external consultant has also recommended increasing the number of front-line officers.

 

We use public funds efficiently.


  • In 2024, the average cost per call for service was $1,030. That’s lower than comparable police services, and much less than other emergency services.
  •  Despite tight budgets, our clearance and weighted rates are better than provincial and national averages – meaning more — and more serious — crimes are being solved.

 

 

Why now?


- Efficiency has limits. As call volumes rise and complexity increases, there comes a point when doing more with less is no longer sustainable.

-Smart growth starts with safety. To attract new businesses and residents, Thunder Bay must be safe—and as our city grows, our police service must grow with it. Today, we are policing a population larger than the one we are funded to serve.

-This budget request is about keeping pace with community needs, protecting public safety, and maintaining strong results.

Your Questions Answered:


Q: Do police officers pursue vehicles? 

A: Their priority is always public safety.   Strict safety procedures are used to decide whether to pursue a vehicle. Officers assess the seriousness of the offence, traffic, weather, road conditions, and pedestrian activity before engaging. If the risk is too high, they won’t pursue.

 


If a pursuit begins, officers and supervisors constantly reassess conditions and will slow down or stop the pursuit if it becomes unsafe.

Other tactics are used to avoid a chase —such as gathering licence plate information, coordinating with other units, or following up later.

Officers receive specialized training in safe emergency driving.

 

Q: Does this mean people who refuse to stop will “get away with it”?
A: The goal is to hold people accountable while keeping the community safe.   Choosing not to stop for police is a serious offence. Officers may use safe and effective methods to identify and arrest the person at a later time rather than engage in a risky pursuit.

 

Using tools such as licence plate readers, in-car video, witness accounts, coordinated units, and follow-up investigations, officers can identify the driver without putting the public at unnecessary risk. In most cases, the person is safely arrested shortly after the incident. 


Looking to make a difference every day in your community? Answer the Call.


At the Thunder Bay Police Service, you don’t just work. You protect, support, and inspire.


Explore exciting opportunities for officers and civilians: https://www.thunderbaypolice.ca/careers

Update from The Thunder Bay Police Service Board


Passing of Former Chief

 

The Thunder Bay Police Service Board was saddened to learn of the recent passing of former Thunder Bay Police Service Chief, J.P. Levesque, and extends its sincere condolences to his wife Colleen, family members, friends, and former colleagues.


Chief Levesque dedicated more than three decades to policing in Thunder Bay, serving our community in a variety of roles throughout his long career. Chief Levesque led the Service with commitment, professionalism, and a dedication to public service, until his retirement in 2018.


We salute Chief Levesque’s many years of service, and the contributions he made to Thunder Bay.

Service 2026 Proposed Operational Budget

 

At its December 16th meeting, the Board approved the Service’s request for a 9.1% budget increase.

 

The Board acknowledges that this request exceeds the City’s guidance to limit budget increases to 2.6%. However, in recent years—specifically 2024 and 2025—the Service’s budget requests have remained lower than the approved increases for police services in comparable municipalities, including Kingston, Barrie, and Sudbury.

 

While each municipality faces unique challenges, Thunder Bay’s policing needs remain significant. 

 

The Service has advised that the current request is driven primarily by the need to add frontline officers, which is essential to addressing crime and meeting broader community safety needs.

 

The Board recognizes that this budget reflects priorities identified by the community through extensive consultations conducted as part of the Strategic Plan development process. The Board is confident these continued strategic investments in community safety will bring sustained and long term positive progress. 

 

Board 2025 Budget Update

 

The budget is generally on track, with the exception of the “Legal Fees – Indemnification” account. Under certain agreements, the Board may be required to cover legal costs for members of the Thunder Bay Police Service. Recent activity, which is higher than usual, has resulted in additional costs beyond the Board’s control. Based on what has been spent and what is expected, it is likely that 2025 will end with a budget shortfall in this area.

 

2026 Board Meeting Dates

 

The Board’s 2026 meeting dates have been announced. The Board welcomes members of the public and media to attend each meeting in -person, at Board Headquarters at 1111 Victoria Ave E, Unit #102. Alternatively, members of the public and media may view Board meetings ‘live’ via the Board’s livestream: http://video.isilive.ca/thunderbay/live.html

 

Board Meetings are also broadcast ‘live’ locally on Rogers TV Thunder Bay (Channel 10 and 105 for Rogers Cable subscribers.)

  • Tuesday January 20, 2026
  • Tuesday February 17, 2026
  • Tuesday March 17, 2026
  • Tuesday April 21, 2026
  • Tuesday May 19, 2026
  • Tuesday June 16, 2026
  • Tuesday July 21, 2026 (tentative)
  • Tuesday August 18, 2026 (tentative)
  • Tuesday September 15, 2026
  • Tuesday October 20, 2026
  • Tuesday November 17, 2026
  • Tuesday December 15, 2026

 

Thank You

 

The Board extends its thanks to all stakeholders, partners, and community members, and wishes you all the best for 2026.

 

The Board welcomes all feedback, questions, and comments. Please get in touch: https://thunderbaypsb.ca/contact/

 

The Board remains committed to maintaining a strong and effective governance structure as it transitions into the new year, with a focus on implementation of our 2025- 2028 Strategic Plan, while ensuring that we continue to build solid relationships and partnerships with all of our communities.

 

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.

TBPS Announces Recipients of New Internal Awards and Recognition Program

April 2, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service is proud to announce the first recipients of its new Internal Awards and Recognition Program. This initiative highlights the exceptional professionalism, courage, and innovation demonstrated by members of the Service in the course of their duties. Constable Ken Ogima and Constable Josh Pugh are being recognized for their actions during a high risk incident on December 26, 2024. Officers responded to reports of an armed individual near Highway 11/17 and Pebblestone Drive. Upon arrival, they located the male, who refused to comply with police commands. The situation escalated when the individual fired at Constable Pugh, narrowly missing him. Constable Ogima acted decisively, returning fire and incapacitating the suspect, preventing further risk to the public and to responding officers. Immediately following the exchange, Constable Pugh began administering first aid to the injured suspect—the same individual who had just attempted to harm him. His actions demonstrated professionalism, composure, and compassion under extreme pressure. Bravery Award & Chief’s Commendation – Constable Ken Ogima Lifesaving Award – Constable Josh Pugh The Service is also recognizing Aaron Dowswell for outstanding contributions that significantly improved operational efficiency between May and December 2024. Through self directed analysis and process redesign, Aaron achieved more than $200,000 in cost savings. A substantial portion of these savings resulted from transitioning numerous repair services from external vendors to in house delivery, improving both efficiency and cost effectiveness. Aaron’s initiative, creativity, and willingness to challenge established practices reflect the intent of the Award for Innovation and Problem Solving. His work has had a measurable and lasting impact on the Service. Innovation and Problem-Solving Award – Aaron Dowswell An officer with the Thunder Bay Police Service Intelligence Unit is being recognized for his actions while responding to a fatal collision on Highway 11/17 near Dorion. Upon arrival, the officer and an off duty paramedic attempted to rescue a driver from a burning vehicle. Despite their efforts, the individual could not be removed. As the fire intensified and the vehicle began to explode, the officer acted quickly to pull the paramedic to safety, preventing further injury or loss of life. Their actions demonstrated courage, clear judgment, and an unwavering commitment to protecting others in life threatening circumstances. Bravery Award – Thunder Bay Police Service Intelligence Officer These recipients exemplify the dedication, professionalism, and service to community that define the Thunder Bay Police Service. We congratulate each of them on their well deserved recognition. Quotes: “On behalf of the Thunder Bay Police Association (TBPA), I want to commend each of the award recipients for their professionalism, courage, and dedication to public safety,” explained TBPA President Colin Woods. “Their actions reflect the highest standards of policing and demonstrate the commitment our members bring to the community every day. We are proud to see their efforts recognized through this new awards program.” “These individuals exemplify the values and integrity of the Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS),” said TBPS Chief Darcy Fleury. “Their actions—whether in moments of extreme danger or through innovative work that strengthens our operations—demonstrate the professionalism and commitment that define our organization. I congratulate each of the recipients and thank them for their service to our community.”

Charges laid following investigation on Thunder Bay's north end

March 31, 2026
TB26011496 A Thunder Bay Police Service Primary Response Unit investigation has led to multiple arrests and charges. On March 28, 2026, officers were sent to a home on Huron Avenue in response to a call regarding an injured individual. When officers arrived, they located an injured man who was transported to a local hospital for treatment. As a result of the investigation, 28-year-old Margaret DIABO from Thunder Bay, and 25-year-old Jayden LACHINETTE are facing the following charges: • Assault with a weapon (two counts) • Forcible confinement (two counts) LACHINETTE has also been charged with failure to comply with an undertaking and failure to comply with a release order. Both of the accused were remanded into custody after their first court appearance.