Man arrested on drug trafficking charges

July 17, 2025

TB25028089

Police seized quantities of suspected illicit substances and arrested a male suspect after being called to a south side address.


Thunder Bay Police Service Community Oriented Response and Engagement (CORE) Unit officers responded to the 1100 block of Lincoln Street on the morning of Wednesday, July 16, after receiving a call for assistance.


Responding officers attended and entered a residence, locating an individual inside who was not a resident. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody. The investigation found that the suspect was under a court order to not be present at that address.


Officers located quantities of suspected cocaine and fentanyl, along with cash, a knife, and paraphernalia consistent with drug trafficking.


Austin HARRIS, 29, is charged with Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (Cocaine), Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (Fentanyl), Possession of Property Obtained by Crime under $5,000, Failure to Comply with a Probation Order, Failure to Comply with a Release Order.


The accused appeared in court on Thursday and has been remanded into custody with a future appearance date.

April 13, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) is recognizing National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, a week dedicated to honouring the essential work of 911 Operators and Dispatchers who serve as the first point of contact in emergencies. Throughout the week on social media, TBPS will be highlighting the critical role of its Communications Centre. This includes the proper use of 911 services, through a top 10 listing of interesting calls that were received in 2025. 911 Operators and Dispatchers are the first lifeline for people in crisis. When someone calls 911, communicators are the first voice they hear. They assess the situation, gather vital information, and dispatch police and fire services while providing calm, steady guidance during moments of fear, confusion, or danger. In the Thunder Bay Police Service Communications Centre, every call is handled by a trained professional who listens carefully, asks the right questions, and coordinates emergency responses during fast‑moving, high‑risk situations. Their work is often unseen, but it is indispensable to public safety. “As Inspector overseeing our Communications Centre, I see firsthand that every call we receive represents someone’s worst moment and our communications professionals are the calm in that storm,” Operational Support Inspector Jason Rybak. “They are the first lifeline, guiding both the public and our officers with precision, professionalism, and compassion. Their voice brings clarity in chaos, and their work saves lives. I am incredibly proud of the dedication and excellence they demonstrate every single day.” The Thunder Bay Police Service extends its sincere appreciation to all 911 Communications Centre staff for their continued dedication, professionalism, and commitment to the community. Current career opportunities in our Communications Centre can be found here: Communication Operator - Temporary (POOL) | Thunder Bay Police Service |
April 10, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service is warning residents of a potential seasonal scam as the weather starts to warm up. Non-reputable driveway paving companies have previously operated in Thunder Bay. These services are often provided without a signed contract, and the providers will ask you to pay upfront. This is not standard for driveway renewals. Once they have received payment, little or no work is done, or they may request more money, claiming it’s necessary to be able to carry out the work. If the work is ever completed, it is often poor quality and could pose a safety hazard or need to be redone. Be cautious of unsolicited door-to-door offers. Look for multiple quotes and ask businesses for their contact information. 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 these types of scams. If there is doubt about whether a repair or product is necessary, seek a second opinion from a trusted person or a certified professional. 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/ )
April 10, 2026
TB26012593 A Thunder Bay Police Service investigation has resulted in a charge. Officers received a report from a local hospital on April 6, 2026, regarding an individual who had died after arriving with injuries consistent with an assault. The Major Crime Unit and Forensic Identification Unit began an investigation. The investigation determined the victim was initially transported to hospital on April 5, 2026, following an altercation at a local hotel. On April 9, 2026, officers with the Major Crime Unit, and Break, Enter, and Armed Robbery Unit located and arrested a suspect. As a result of the investigation, Jaykwon WAPOOSE, 21, has been charged with manslaughter. The accused has been remanded into custody with a future court date.