National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week

April 13, 2026

The Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) is recognizing National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, a week dedicated to honouring the essential work of 911 Operators and Dispatchers who serve as the first point of contact in emergencies.


Throughout the week on social media, TBPS will be highlighting the critical role of its Communications Centre. This includes the proper use of 911 services, through a top 10 listing of interesting calls that were received in 2025.


911 Operators and Dispatchers are the first lifeline for people in crisis. When someone calls 911, communicators are the first voice they hear.


They assess the situation, gather vital information, and dispatch police and fire services while providing calm, steady guidance during moments of fear, confusion, or danger.


In the Thunder Bay Police Service Communications Centre, every call is handled by a trained professional who listens carefully, asks the right questions, and coordinates emergency responses during fast‑moving, high‑risk situations. Their work is often unseen, but it is indispensable to public safety.


“As Inspector overseeing our Communications Centre, I see firsthand that every call we receive represents someone’s worst moment and our communications professionals are the calm in that storm,” Operational Support Inspector Jason Rybak. “They are the first lifeline, guiding both the public and our officers with precision, professionalism, and compassion. Their voice brings clarity in chaos, and their work saves lives. I am incredibly proud of the dedication and excellence they demonstrate every single day.”


The Thunder Bay Police Service extends its sincere appreciation to all 911 Communications Centre staff for their continued dedication, professionalism, and commitment to the community.


Current career opportunities in our Communications Centre can be found here: Communication Operator - Temporary (POOL) | Thunder Bay Police Service |

Intelligence Unit drug trafficking investigation leads to charges

August 11, 2026
TB26030742 A Thunder Bay Police Service drug trafficking investigation has resulted in charges. As part of the investigation, Intelligence Unit officers searched a home in the Pearl Street area on August 4, 2026. During the search, two individuals were located and arrested. Quantities of suspected cocaine, cash, and items associated with drug trafficking were also seized. As a result of the investigation, 38-year-old Crystal IDZI from Thunder Bay and 46-year-old Micheal MOCK of Thunder Bay are facing the following charges: • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – cocaine • Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime under $5,000 Both of the accused were remanded into custody following their first court appearance.

Thunder Bay Police Service response to weapons call leads to charges

August 10, 2026
TB26031031 A Thunder Bay Police Service investigation has resulted in charges. Officers with the Primary Response Unit were dispatched to the Syndicate Avenue South and Donald Street East area around 10:00 AM on August 6, 2026, in response to multiple reports regarding a stabbing. On scene three victims were located. One individual was transported to a local hospital for treatment of their injuries, which are considered not to be life-threatening. The Break, Enter, and Robbery Unit became involved in the investigation. Further investigation led to a suspect being identified. A search of the area led to the suspect being located and arrested. As a result of the investigation, 45-year-old Lazarus YELLOWHEAD of Webequie First Nation is facing the following charges: • Aggravated assault • Assault with a weapon • Assault • Resist peace officer • Failure to comply with a release order The accused was remanded into custody following their first court appearance.

Primary Response Unit assault investigation leads to charges

August 9, 2026
TB26030239 A Thunder Bay Police Service assault investigation has resulted in charges. Officers with the Primary Response Unit were dispatched to the Donald Street East area on July 31, 2026, in response to a report regarding an assault. The suspect had left the scene prior to officers arriving. One victim was located with minor injuries, and they were transported to a local hospital for treatment. A search of the area led to a suspect being located and arrested. As a result of the investigation, 32-year-old Clinton OSTAMUS of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Assault • Obstruct peace officer The accused was released from custody following their first court appearance with a future court date.