Drug trafficking investigation leads to charges

March 16, 2026

TB26009320


A Thunder Bay Police Service drug trafficking investigation has led to charges and the seizure of suspected illegal drugs.
 
The investigation began on January 12, 2026, in response to reports of suspected drug trafficking.
 
On March 12, 2026, Intelligence Unit officers with the assistance of the Emergency Task Unit searched a home in the Algoma Street area.
 
During the search suspected fentanyl, crack cocaine, methamphetamine, cash, a stun gun and items associated with drug trafficking were seized.
 
As a result of the investigation, 48-year-old Robert NICHOLSON and 40-year-old Courtney VANDENBROEKE, both from Thunder Bay are facing the following charges:
 
• Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime under $5,000 
• 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 
• Unauthorized possession of weapon
 
NICHOLSON has also been charged with two failure to comply with a release order charges.
 
Both of the accused were remanded into custody after their first court appearance. 

Fraud Friday: Driveway Paving Scam

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With the first day of Summer just around the corner, the Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) is warning residents about driveway paving scams. Although TBPS has not received any reports of driveway paving scams so far this year, other police services in Ontario have. Residents are urged to be cautious of individuals posing as legitimate contractors offering unsolicited paving services. These individuals often claim to have “leftover asphalt” from another job and offer discounted, same day work. They may also push for cash only payments or use high pressure tactics to secure quick agreements. These offers frequently result in poor quality work, inflated prices, or unfinished jobs, with the individuals leaving the area shortly afterward. Residents are encouraged to: • Request written estimates and contracts before agreeing to any work • Report suspicious activity to the Thunder Bay Police Service Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 1 800 222 8477 or online at www.p3tips.com .

Missing Person: Jayla DEVENTE, 15

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TB26021102 The Thunder Bay Police Service is requesting the public’s assistance in locating 15-year-old Jayla DEVENTE. Jayla was last seen on June 3, 2026, around 3:30 PM. DEVENTE is described as a white female, standing 5’5”, weighing approximately 160 lbs, with long dark brown and burgundy hair, and blue eyes. She was last seen wearing a black Adidas sweater and grey sweatpants. 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.

Drug trafficking investigation results in seizure of illicit drugs and two firearms

June 3, 2026
TB26020832 and TB26020814 A Thunder Bay Police Service drug trafficking investigation has led to the seizure of illicit drugs and two firearms. As part of the investigation, the Emergency Task Unit and Intelligence Unit searched two homes on Finlayson Street. During the searches suspected fentanyl, crack cocaine, cocaine, and two guns were seized. The total street value of the drugs is approximately $19,755. As a result of the investigation, 47-year-old David CAKE of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: Possession of firearm or ammunition contrary to prohibition order (six counts) 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 over $5,000 Knowledge of unauthorized possession of firearm (two counts) Careless storage of firearm, weapon, prohibited device or ammunition (two counts) Unauthorized possession of a firearm (two counts) Possession of prohibited or restricted firearm with ammo Douglas SHAFRANSKI, a 47-year-old from Thunder Bay, and Saceriya MOHAMED, a 31-year-old of Toronto, are also facing the following charges: Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime under $5,000 Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking - cocaine Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – opioid CAKE was remanded into custody following his first court appearance. SHAFRANSKI and MOHAMED were both released from custody with a future court date.