May 2025

May 1, 2025

Last week, we celebrated Police Week to recognize and thank the dedicated members of Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS)—those on the front lines and those working tirelessly behind the scenes. In my view, they deserve appreciation every day. Every action in their work is rooted in one goal: keeping our community safe.


I also want to extend sincere gratitude to the many community members who support our work. Whether through kind words, partnerships, or simply a shared belief in public safety, your support makes a real difference. It reminds our members that their service matters and that we are stronger when we stand together.


There is no question that the work of our members is both demanding and impactful. From May 12-May 18, the Thunder Bay Police Service received 1,144 calls for service. Of the total calls for service, 197 were classified as Priority 1 calls.


Below is a breakdown of some of the call types reported during those 7 days:

  • 90 motor vehicle collisions
  • 38 assaults
  • 15 weapons calls
  • 9 robberies
  • 8 motor vehicle thefts
  • 42 theft/shoplifting


During that time period, the Thunder Bay Police Service Communications Centre handled a total of 4,724 calls, with 1,930 of those being calls incoming directly through 9-1-1.


People are often experiencing their most difficult moments when they come into contact with police. I recognize that perceptions of policing can vary widely. Some see police as symbols of safety and reassurance, while others may view them with skepticism, shaped by personal experience or broader societal issues. I remain committed to listening, learning, and building trust through every interaction.



All community members are invited to ask questions at an upcoming Chat with the Chief event:


Thursday, May 22 at 6:00 pm (symposium at 5:30)

Waverley Resource Library, Red River Road


To submit questions ahead of the event, visit https://forms.office.com/r/cuPSF5LFrH

Missing Person: Leanne BARKMAN, 33

June 29, 2026
TB26024976 The Thunder Bay Police Service is requesting the public’s assistance in locating 33-year-old Leanne BARKMAN. BARKMAN is described as an Indigenous female standing 5’ 4”, weighing roughly 160 lbs, with shoulder-length straight brown hair with blonde highlights, and brown eyes. Leanne usually wears black sunglasses. She was last seen wearing black shorts, a light grey tank top, and black short boots with heels. 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 .

Thunder Bay Police Service Primary Response Unit investigation leads to aggravated assault charges

June 26, 2026
A Thunder Bay Police Service Primary Response Unit investigation has resulted in aggravated assault charges. On June 24, 2026, officers responded to the Bay Street area in response to a report regarding an assault. On scene an injured male was located and transported to a local hospital for treatment. Further investigation led to two suspects being identified, located, and arrested. As a result of the investigation, 39-year-old Biaggio DONOVAN from Thunder Bay and 32-year-old Marissa DOKUCHIE from Thunder Bay have both been charged with aggravated assault. DONOVAN is also facing a fail to comply with probation order charge. Both of the accused were remanded into custody following their first court appearance. 

Thunder Bay Police Service announces the extension of Project Support

June 26, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) is announcing the extension of Project Support: A Downtown Core Stabilization Initiative. The pilot project, being led by the Thunder Bay Police Service Community Oriented Response and Engagement (CORE) Unit with the assistance of the Emergency Task Unit (ETU) is aimed at addressing public safety in the city’s downtown cores. The project was set to operate for 60 days from April 20, 2026, to June 19, 2026. The extension will keep the project running until September 1, 2026. The initiative is aimed at connecting those in need to services. During patrols, the first step of contact is with a TBPS Social Navigator offering referrals to appropriate services like social services, or addiction supports. If an individual declines to be referred but continues to participate in unlawful, or disruptive activities like illicit drug use, then officers will proceed with enforcement. From April 20 through the end of May, Project Support has recorded: • 1,485 community contacts • 113 referrals generated, 53 accepted • 25 warrants executed during downtown patrols Throughout the pilot project, downtown core businesses have provided feedback on the initiative. As Project Support continues, patrols will continue to be focused on the following areas: • Red River Road • Cumberland Street • Court Street • Algoma Street • May Street • Victoriaville area Priority areas within the patrol zones will include: • Transit stops • BIA storefronts • Public plazas • Parking areas • Commercial areas • Pedestrian walking areas • Public gathering areas The initiative aims to: • Prioritize service connections for people experiencing addiction, mental health challenges, or housing instability • Improve public safety and restore order in shared public spaces • Reduce visible disorder and open drug use in downtown cores • Strengthen collaboration with social service and community partners • Ensure consistent, lawful, and proportionate enforcement Following the completion of the Project, TBPS will conduct a formal evaluation and will make a determination regarding continuation into the fall.