October 2025

October 23, 2025

Youth Corps building tomorrow’s leaders

Sergeant Sean Shorrock is the Commanding Officer of the TBPS Youth Corps.


“I’ve seen firsthand the incredible impact this program has on our youth and our community,” said Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) Sergeant Sean Shorrock, who is also Commanding Officer of the TBPS Youth Corps.


It’s more than a leadership program — it’s a powerful bridge between young people and law enforcement.


The program gives youth, especially those from diverse backgrounds, opportunity to engage with policing in a positive, supportive environment. They develop leadership skills, discipline, and a sense of responsibility — all while learning about teamwork, public service, and community building.


“One of the most rewarding parts is watching young people gain confidence in themselves and their future. Many of our Youth Corps members go on to pursue careers in law enforcement, social services, and other public-facing roles, and it all starts with giving them a space where they feel seen, heard, and valued,” Shorrock said.


The Thunder Bay Police Youth Corps is a free program – even the uniforms are provided. Do you know a youth between 13-15 who wants to be a future community leader? Learn more at www.tbpoliceyouthcorps.com or check out the Key at https://thekeytbay.ca/fall-2025/city-of-thunder-bay/


Gang prevention – Keeping youth safe


Connecting with young people before negative influences take hold can save lives.

 

This September, our Operational Support Branch led a series of impactful gang prevention presentations in local and regional schools. Feature speaker Tania Ross, originally from Opaskwayak Cree Nation, grew up in Winnipeg’s north end and in Edmonton. As a teenager, she became involved in the gang lifestyle, which ultimately led to 20 years of incarceration. Today, she has transformed her life and now works as a motivational speaker and manager of a healing lodge for at-risk youth in Manitoba.

 

Tania encouraged students to embrace their authentic selves and to seek support from trusted people in their lives when facing difficult situations. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of second chances, resilience, and the strength found in asking for help.

 

This initiative was made possible through funding from the Province of Ontario’s Proceeds of Crime Frontline Policing Grant and is part of our ongoing partnership with the Youth and Family Support Program.


Memorial Service honours fallen police and peace officers 

For the first time, the local and national Police and Peace Officers Memorial Services were combined.

 

TBPS Constable Craig Town was honoured as part of the National Memorial Service in Ottawa, with his name being engraved on the Honour Roll tablet there. It was important to Live-stream the national service as part of our service – and be connected in time and spirit.

 

Members of the Town family, along with several TBPS members, attended in Ottawa, where Deputy Chief Jeremy Pearson was the Honorary Parade Commander. In Thunder Bay, Acting Chief Ryan Hughes spoke to guests gathered at Lakehead University.

 

“We will never forget the ultimate sacrifice made in the line of duty by John Kusznier, and the contributions and tragic loss of Joe Prevett. We remember Constable Craig Town, who survived a serious gunshot injury sustained in the line of duty in 1991. We gather not only in their memory but in honour of all police and peace officers who have given their lives in service across Canada,” he said.

 

We remember the fallen. We honour their legacy. And we carry their spirit forward in all we do.

Truth and Reconciliation: a commitment to meaningful action


In recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the TBPS proudly raised the Survivors’ Flag - an expression of remembrance, meant to honour residential school Survivors and all the lives and communities impacted by the residential school system in Canada. Our commitment to Truth and Reconciliation extends well beyond this day.



At the heart of our efforts is a deep respect and gratitude for the members of the Indigenous Leadership Collaborative - an advisory body to Chief Darcy Fleury. These dedicated leaders of Indigenous organizations, groups and communities apply their combined wisdom, lived experiences, and cultural knowledge to help advance our Truth & Reconciliation Action Plan. The plan anchors our commitment to meaningful change with five clear goals: Engage, Support, Recruit, Communicate, and Act. 

Update from The Thunder Bay Police Service Board


2025-2028 Strategic Plan


The Thunder Bay Police Service Board is pleased to present its 2025-2028 Strategic Plan, in partnership with the Thunder Bay Police Service. The Plan sets the direction for policing in Thunder Bay over the next three years. 


The Plan establishes clear priorities for the Police Service Board’s governance role, and informs the operational planning and service delivery led by the Chief of Police and the Service’s leadership team. 

Developed through extensive community and stakeholder consultation, the plan emphasizes public safety, accountability, transparency, and fairness, while remaining adaptable to emerging needs. 

Progress will be measured, reported, and shared to ensure effective, responsive, and trustworthy policing for the community.


We encourage members of our communities, stakeholders, and media, to review the Plan and the following summaries: 2025-2028 Strategic Plan

Appendix #1: 2024 TBPS Statistics Summary

Appendix #2: TBPS Employee Survey Summary

Appendix #3: Community Consultation Summary

Thank You, Wayne!

The Thunder Bay Police Service Board extends its appreciation to Wayne Bahlieda for his service and contributions during his most recent term as Board member, which concluded on September 6th.


Mr. Bahlieda has been a valued member of the Board over the past two years, chairing the Labour Relations and Bargaining Committees and serving on the Hiring Committee. Through these roles, he has played a significant part in ensuring the Board’s effective governance and fulfillment of its oversight responsibilities.


This marks Mr. Bahlieda’s second tenure with the Board, having previously served from 2003 to 2010.


As Bahlieda’s role was assigned as a ‘provincial appointment,’ the province is responsible for appointing a new board member.


Executive Director Recruitment

In the spring, the Board embarked on a search for a new Executive Director.

Unfortunately, the Board was unable to secure a contract with an applicant.

As such, the position was reposted, and the Board is seeking additional applicants.

At this time, we anticipate the hiring process will be complete within approximately six weeks following the close of the posting.



Board Meetings

The next Board meeting is October 21st, 2025.

Watch next month’s meeting LIVE:

https://video.isilive.ca/thunderbay/live.html


Thunder Bay Police Service investigating collision involving pedestrian and train

April 27, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service is investigating a sudden death following a collision involving a train and a pedestrian. The incident occurred on the evening of April 25, 2026, near Fort William Road. Officers with the Primary Response Unit responded to the scene where a deceased individual was located. The Forensic Identification Unit and Traffic Unit are involved in the investigation. No other information is available at this time. Updates will be provided as appropriate.

April 2026

April 27, 2026
On average, our 911 Communications Operators handle over 4,200 calls per week. Every day, moments of crisis, uncertainty, and urgency often begin with a call for help. Behind each one is a highly trained 911 Communications Operator—calm, focused, and ready to support those in need. Although their work often happens behind the scenes, its impact is felt every day across our community. Last week, during National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week (April 12 – 18), and throughout the year, we recognize the dedication of these professionals whose work is foundational to public safety. At the same time, we continue to implement initiatives to proactively address complex public safety challenges, which can also reduce emergency calls and demands on our front-line officers. Last month, there were: · 4128 Calls for Service · 168 calls related to the Mental Health Act · 315 arrests · 51 assaults on police The Downtown Core Stabilization Initiative, led by our Community Outreach Unit, is focused on improving safety in both downtown business areas. It proactively addresses concerns such as open drug use, disorderly behaviour, vandalism, and aggressive conduct, and how these issues affect people’s sense of safety and the local economy. This initiative combines a visible police presence with care and compassion. Foot patrols include a social navigator and community inclusion supports to connect people with services for addiction, mental health, or housing needs whenever possible. When individuals decline support or continue behaviour that is not permitted, officers take consistent, lawful, and fair enforcement action. This work relies on strong partnerships, and I thank our community and social service partners for their ongoing commitment to long‑term solutions. We are also strengthening our Service by welcoming new officers to our front‑line teams. Last month, seven new constables were sworn in, and additional recruits will join us after completing police academy. These recruits help us meet day‑to‑day demands while building for the future of policing in our community. I extend my sincere thanks to our sworn and civilian members, community partners, and residents. Public safety is a shared responsibility, and together we continue working toward a safer, more supportive community for everyone.

Theft From Vehicle Prevention Tips

April 24, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service is reminding residents to take steps to protect their property when leaving a vehicle unattended. Avoid leaving any unnecessary items in plain view. Thieves often look for quick opportunities, and visible valuables can make your vehicle a target. Items commonly stolen include: • Purses • Wallets • Jewelry • Keys • Electronics and other valuables It only takes a moment of distraction, such as leaving your vehicle unlocked while pumping gas, for someone to steal your wallet or other belongings. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and: • Lock all parcels and shopping bags in the trunk of your vehicle • Never hide a spare key inside your vehicle or outside your residence • Avoid leaving personal identification or valuables in your vehicle • Remove technology and other removable accessories from view when your vehicle is unattended Taking simple precautions can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim of theft.