I recognize the families who were present today and extend my deepest condolences to the loved ones and communities of those tragically lost. My thoughts are with those who continue to feel the pain and trauma of loss.
We will continue to do our work to achieve the closure they deserve, including fully cooperating in any investigations into or complaints regarding Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS).
I know TBPS is under scrutiny. I take very seriously my responsibility to build confidence and welcome the involvement and wisdom of Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) and other Indigenous community leaders at any time as we continue in our commitment to advance Truth and Reconciliation.
I am grateful to our committed and progressive partners for pressing forward with us. We must work together to support people to access the services they need to be safe and healthy.
I am here as Chief of Police because of a renewal of both the Board and Administrative leadership as part of that commitment. TBPS began the path we’re on now a year ago and will continue this journey. We are simply not the same service.
Change and trust take time. Progress has been made, and more will come.
I empathise with the pain and frustrations we heard from families and leaders. More can and will be done to communicate with the families about their loved ones’ investigations.
To maintain the integrity of investigations, certain information must be guarded, and this can result in misinformation or speculation. Here are some details that can be shared at this time.
• The investigation into the death of Corey Belesky is active and ongoing. Of the 15 homicide investigations initiated in 2022, 14 are completed and now before the court.
• Mackenzie Moonias was last seen on December 13, 2023. When Mackenzie was reported as missing to TBPS on December 15, 2023, an investigation was initiated. Family members and community Chiefs were informed throughout the search.
• As the Special Investigations Unit has noted, TBPS received multiple 911 calls in the hours before Jenna Ostberg’s death. The initial call was not related to violence involving her and the second call indicated she was no longer present.
• In March 2024, the Director of the Office of the Independent Police Review (OIRPD) issued an update regarding its recommendations outlined in the 2018 Broken Trust report. The update identified that 100% of the recommendations are either fully implemented or ongoing as intended. The Director notes, “The progress made goes beyond procedural changes; it represents a fundamental shift towards a unified effort by both the TBPS and the TBPSB to build community trust in Thunder Bay.”
• Current administration is cooperating with the OPP reinvestigations at a level not before seen. Information regarding the reinvestigations must be provided by the OPP.
• There has been a demonstrated commitment to ensure appropriate conduct within the Service.