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


Project Rave leads to significant suspected illicit drug seizure, dozens of charges

August 7, 2026
TB24047484 A Thunder Bay Police Service Intelligence Unit drug trafficking investigation has led to dozens of charges and a significant suspected illicit drug seizure. The investigation dubbed Project Rave focused on targeting drug trafficking activities in the downtown north core. The investigation focused on individuals involved in the distribution of illegal drugs and the disruption of associated criminal networks operating in the area. Project Rave resulted in the seizure of significant quantities of illicit drugs with an estimated street value of approximately $300,000. The investigation also led to the arrest of six individuals, with a total of 37 charges laid under the Criminal Code and the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. As a result of this investigation, the following seizures were made: • 2761.59 grams suspected Cocaine • 1167 suspected Percocet tablets • 383 grams suspected Crystal Methamphetamine • Currency more than $5000 • 2 vehicles • Brass knuckles and switchblade • 5 cellular devices • 4 digital scales Investigators additionally seized two vehicles and more than $5,000 in Canadian. On July 16, 2026, members of the Thunder Bay Police Service Intelligence Unit and Emergency Task Unit, with assistance from the Ontario Provincial Police Organized Crime Enforcement Bureau and the Nishnawbe Aski Police Service, executed five search warrants at locations throughout the City of Thunder Bay. As a result of this investigation, the following individuals have been arrested as a result of Project Rave: David CAIRNS, 41 of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Traffic in Schedule 1 substance – cocaine (five counts) • Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime under $5,000 (six counts) • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – methamphetamine • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – opioid • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – cocaine • Conspiracy to commit indictable offence Trentin HOLMQUIST, 22 from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime under $5,000 (four counts) • Unauthorized possession of a prohibited or restricted firearm • Traffic in Schedule 1 substance – cocaine (three counts) • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – cocaine • Conspiracy to commit indictable offence Erica NEVERLY, 40 from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • 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 a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking - methamphetamine Melanie PRIMEAU, 29 from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • 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 under $5,000 • Conspiracy to commit indictable offence Celina SUTHERLAND, 39 of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Traffic in Schedule 1 substance – cocaine • Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime under $5,000 Jesse DAROSA, 35 from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Traffic in Schedule 1 substance – cocaine • Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime under $5,000 • Conspiracy to commit indictable offence CAIRNS and HOLMQUIST were remanded into custody following their first court appearance with a future court date. The remaining accused were released from custody following their first court appearance with a future court date. The successful completion of this investigation was made possible through funding provided by the Ontario Government, Ministry of the Solicitor General in which the Criminal Intelligence Service Ontario supported this investigation. The Thunder Bay Police Service also acknowledges valuable contributions of the Ontario Provincial Police Organized Crime Enforcement Bureau, Nishnawbe Aski Police Service, Sault Ste. Marie Police Service, Sudbury Police Service, and the Winnipeg Police Service, whose partnerships and assistance were instrumental to the success of this investigation. The investigation remains ongoing.

Missing Person: Clifton LOON, 25

August 6, 2026
TB26030592 The Thunder Bay Police Service is requesting the public’s assistance in locating 25-year-old Clifton LOON. Clifton was last seen on August 3, 2026, in the Oliver Road area. LOON is described as an Indigenous male, standing 6’0”, weighing approximately 180 lbs, with black brush-cut hair, and brown eyes. Loon also has a tattoo on his right arm. He was last seen wearing a grey t-shirt and black pants. 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.

Primary Response Unit break and enter investigation leads to charges

August 6, 2026
TB26028629 A Thunder Bay Police Service investigation has resulted in charges. Officers with the Primary Response Unit were dispatched to the Rowand Street area around 7:40 PM on July 21, 2026, in response to a report regarding a break and enter. A search of the area led to a suspect being located and arrested following a brief foot pursuit. As a result of the investigation, 22-year-old Alexandre MICHAUD of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Break, enter dwelling house – commit indictable offence • Assault with a weapon (two counts) • Mischief under $5,000 • Obstruct peace officer The accused was remanded into custody following their first court appearance.