June 2026

June 15, 2026

Community Breakfast


Join us on National Indigenous Peoples’ Day. Everyone is welcome to enjoy a pancake breakfast (while supplies last) and the unveiling of artwork depicting the Seven Grandfather Teachings. 

 

Sunday, June 21

8:00 am – 9:30 am

Thunder Bay Police Service

1200 Balmoral Street parking lot



What we heard: Citizen Survey


The citizen satisfaction survey helps us understand how the community perceives and experiences policing. Responses help to focus on what matters most to the people we serve.

 

The survey is statistically relevant, meaning the people who responded represent Statistics Canada’s demographics of our community. 


Highlights


Safety perceptions are split. 51% feel safe in Thunder Bay.

 

The top issues making people feel unsafe are tied to disorder (87%), substance use (87%) and homelessness/ encampments (77%).

 

Of the respondents, 77% report they were not a victim of crime in the past year. Nearly half had contact with police in some capacity.

Highlights



Residents recognize that improving community safety is a shared responsibility.

 

In terms of playing a critical role, people closely rate the importance of police, addiction services and support, affordable housing, and mental health and wellness.

 


Highlights


The #1 action we can take that would make people feel more safe is increased police presence.

 

People would like TBPS to prioritize:

#1 investigating and solving violent crimes and illegal firearms (49%).

 

#2 patrolling neighbourhoods and interacting with residents.

 

#3 responding to 911 calls.


Respect: Perception vs Reality


66% believe TBPS would treat them with respect if they had contact for any reason.

 

94% of people who actually had contact with TBPS say they were treated respectfully.



Survey Says

41% didn’t report a crime because they didn’t think anything would be done


People may feel that nothing is being done if they don’t get updates from police. We recognize that people often hope to get updates after reporting something they’ve seen or are concerned about. Follow-up is not always possible unless further action is required.

 

Many incidents don’t need further action because they are resolved on scene or enough evidence is provided for officers to move forward. After a serious incident, updates may come from investigators, victim services or someone involved in the court process.

 

Non-emergency and online reports may be handled by the Resource Unit, which includes the Patrol Support Callback Unit. Officers will follow-up if more information is required by the person reporting.

 

Why Report?

 

Every report matters. Information is reviewed, helps identify patterns, supports investigations, and contributes to improving safety in the community.

 

Online Reporting helps focus resources on urgent calls while ensuring every report is reviewed.

 

Online reporting is a quick and convenient way to report non-urgent incidents. Evidence like images and video can be submitted this way. Reports are investigated by dedicated police officers. Online reports can and do lead to charges or arrests. Even when they don’t, every report helps police identify suspects and patterns over time, which supports larger investigations.


Survey Says


The top issue people want TBPS to deal with is drug use (62%)


Addressing guns, gangs, and drugs crimes continues to be a top priority. Our approach includes a combination of targeted enforcement, prevention, outreach, and partnerships with community services—focusing on both crime and its root causes. This includes:

 

  • Investigations into trafficking, distribution networks, and organized crime
  • Intelligence-led policing and coordinated enforcement efforts
  • Responding to firearms-related offences
  • Preventing involvement in gangs and drugs through youth engagement and education programs
  • Working closely with Health and Social services and community partners to address underlying drivers and impacts

In 2025, our officers seized over $4.5 million worth of drugs and 19 firearms. 


Difference Maker


We are proud to announce that civilian member Olivia Gater was awarded the Police Association of Ontario On-Duty Difference Maker Award for her service as a vital bridge between policing and social care, helping vulnerable individuals access the support they need. Olivia works with members across investigative units to provide case management, advocacy, and connections to essential services, and since 2023 has expanded the program's reach, resulting in a 1,000% increase in referrals and an 82% average annual growth rate.


Her compassion and advocacy are evident in the development of initiatives such as ReconnectU and InReach, improving outcomes for individuals in crisis while strengthening community trust in policing.

 

Congratulations to Olivia on receiving this meaningful Police Services Hero of the Year Awards.

 


Update from the Thunder Bay Police Service Board


The Board is pleased to share key updates from its May meeting and recent activities.



May 19 Board Meeting Highlights

 

Approved - Misconduct Reporting Policy, establishing clear procedures for reporting

alleged misconduct by the Chief or Deputy Chiefs under the Community Safety and

Policing Act, 2019.

 

Re-reviewed - Occupational Health and Safety Policy, outlining responsibilities for

maintaining a safe workplace and ensuring compliance with legislation.

 

2025 Public Safety in Thunder Bay Survey results were presented:

 

o Safety perceptions remain split: 51% of residents feel safe; 32% feel unsafe.

 

o Top concerns: disorder, substance use, homelessness/encampments.

 

o Residents’ priority areas for policing: drugs and property crime.

 

o Public perceptions are mixed: enforcement is viewed positively, but residents are

less confident in response speed and community engagement.

 

o Full report available on the Board’s website: https://thunderbaypsb.ca/transparency-and-accountability/


Chief Fleury Recognized


Chief Darcy Fleury has been appointed a Member of the Order of Merit of the Police Forces (M.O.M.). 

 

Statement can be found by clicking here.


National Police Week

 

Board members joined Chief Fleury and Deputy Chiefs Hughes and Pearson on May 11 for the

official proclamation and flag raising at City Hall.


Board Meetings

 

Meetings are open to the public/media at 1111 Victoria Ave E, Unit #102.

 

Broadcast live on Rogers TV Thunder Bay (Channels 10 and 105).

 

Livestream link provided on Facebook/X, prior to the meeting.

 

Next meeting: Tuesday, June 16, 2026.

Missing Person: Ivory PANACHEESE, 24

August 29, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service is requesting the public’s assistance in locating 24-year-old Ivory PANACHEESE. PANACHEESE is described as an Indigenous female standing approximately 5’10” weighing roughly 140 lbs, with shoulder-length blonde hair, brown eyes, and a tattoo of the letter R near her left eye.  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.

Fraud Friday: AI generated scam videos

August 28, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) is reminding residents to be cautious when viewing online videos and advertisements that promote investment opportunities, cryptocurrency purchases, or quick‑profit schemes. TBPS has received reports regarding this type of scam before. This advisory is being shared to help the public recognize the potential risk and take precautions. Fraudsters are increasingly using AI‑generated videos to make their scams appear legitimate. These videos may feature fabricated spokespeople, altered public figures, or realistic‑looking presenters encouraging viewers to invest or send money. AI‑generated content can be difficult to spot, but there are common red flags. Protect yourself: • Inconsistencies with speech and mouth movements, or a speaker who appears unnaturally still. • Inconsistencies in lighting. • Eyes that lack vibrancy or appear unnatural. • Blurred edges, angles, or facial features, including “face wobble.” • Unnatural eye direction or blinking. • Missing facial features or missing details in glasses, hair, or teeth. • Overly smooth skin. • Misalignment in facial symmetry or features that do not match (for example, ears that differ noticeably). Verify any offers by contacting the company directly using a trusted source of information. If a video or advertisement seems suspicious, do not engage with it. Report suspicious activity to the Thunder Bay Police Service.  If you have lost money or disclosed personal or financial information, contact your financial institution immediately and report the incident to police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre ( https://antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/index-eng.htm ).

Thunder Bay Police Service Cyber Crime Unit investigation leads to charges

August 27, 2026
TB26004555 A Thunder Bay Police Service Cyber Crime Unit investigation has resulted in charges. The investigation began in February 2026, in response to a report of an individual possessing and attempting to access Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation Material (CSAEM) through the Bing search engine. In July a home was searched on Thunder Bay’s south end leading to the seizure of 10 electronic devices. On August 26, 2026, a suspect turned themselves in to the Thunder Bay Police Service Station. As a result of the investigation, 40-year-old Blair O’CONNOR from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Access any child sexual abuse and exploitation material • Possession of child sexual abuse and exploitation material The accused was released from custody following their first court appearance with a future court date. Anyone with information that could assist investigators is asked to please contact Detective Constable Joel Manherz at (807) 684-1200 ext. 4115. Tips can be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, online at www.p3tips.com . 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 – the safety tips outlined below are recommended for children of any age. 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. This project has been made possible by a grant from the Ministry of the Solicitor General. 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.