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


Thunder Bay Police Service Cyber Crime Unit investigation leads to charges

October 7, 2026
TB26033026 A Thunder Bay Police Service Cyber Crime Unit investigation has resulted in charges. The investigation began on August 19, 2026, in response to a report of a local resident uploading child sexual abuse and exploitation material (CSAEM) to the Bing search engine. Further investigation led to a suspect being identified. On September 24, 2026, officers searched a home in Thunder Bay and seized multiple electronic devices as part of the investigation. On October 7, 2026, the suspect turned themselves in to Thunder Bay Police Service Headquarters. As a result of the investigation, 56-year-old Jeffrey PETERS of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Possession of child sexual abuse and exploitation material • Access any child sexual abuse and exploitation material The accused was remanded into custody following their first court appearance. The investigation into the matter remains ongoing. The Thunder Bay Police Service recognizes that parents and caregivers are the frontline when it comes to protecting children on the Internet and electronic devices. We encourage you to remain vigilant in your efforts. Tips for talking to your kids can be found, and reporting of any online exploitation can also be made, at Canada’s National Tipline for Reporting the Online Sexual Exploitation of Children at cybertip.ca. There are also resources available through the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health for those who have a sexual interest in children. The new Talking for Change ( https://talkingforchange.ca/ ) program is the first of its kind in Canada and provides national and all-ages help for those concerned about their risk to use child sexual exploitation material or offend sexually against a child. Anyone with information that could assist investigators is asked to please contact Detective Constable Brian STEWART at 807-684-1200 ex. 407. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, online at www.p3tips.com .

Suspect arrested after police respond to weapons call

October 7, 2026
TB26038332 Police officers intervened and stopped an assault in progress where the assailant was in possession of a weapon. Thunder Bay Police Service Primary Response officers were dispatched to an address on Arthur Street West shortly before 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, September 22, after receiving multiple reports of an assault that was occurring. Information was received that the suspect was wielding a knife while assaulting an adult male. Responding officers located a male matching the suspect description. The suspect was arrested and found to be in possession of a knife. The officers spoke to the victim and learned that the suspect had demanded money before brandishing a knife and committing assault. Zachery JIM, 31, is charged with the following: • Robbery • Assault with a Weapon • Possession of a Weapon for Dangerous Purpose • Uttering Threats – Cause Death or Bodily Harm The accused individual was remanded into custody following an initial court appearance.

Thunder Bay Police Service Primary Response Unit patrol leads to charges

October 7, 2026
TB26037650 A Thunder Bay Police Service Primary Response Unit investigation has resulted in charges. Officers were on patrol in the Machar Avenue area on September 18, 2026, when they saw an individual attempting to gain access to a locked vehicle. The suspect fled after officers made initial contact. Officers located and arrested the suspect following a brief foot pursuit. A search of the suspect led to stolen items being located and seized. As a result of the investigation, 25-year-old Darnell BRETHOUR from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: · Possession of weapon for dangerous purpose · Carrying concealed weapon · Possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000 · Fail to comply with probation order (two counts)  The accused was remanded into custody following their first court appearance.