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


Primary Response Unit investigation leads to charges

April 7, 2026
TB26012417 A Thunder Bay Police Service response to a call for service has resulted in charges. Officers with the Primary Response Unit were sent to Oliver Road on the evening of April 4, 2026, in response to a report of an assault. Two injured individuals were located and transported to a local hospital for treatment. Further investigation led to a suspect being identified and located. As a result of the investigation, 27-year-old Scotlund CROMPTON from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Assault with a weapon • Aggravated assault • Assault causing bodily harm • Fail to comply with release order • Fail to comply with probation order The accused was remanded into custody with a future court date.

Update - Missing Person - Daniela NEKULIAK, 62

April 2, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service is continuing to request the public's assistance in locating missing person, Daniela NEKULIAK, 62. Today marks three-weeks since she was last seen. Investigators issued a Northwestern Ontario Region bulletin to all police services in Ontario on March 19, 2026, and continue to follow up on any leads from the community. The investigation remains ongoing. Daniela was last seen on Algoma Street North walking towards Boulevard Lake around 9:30 AM on the morning of March 12, 2026. She is described as a female, that stands roughly 5'4'’ tall with a medium build. She has medium-length grey hair, and brown eyes. If a member of the public spots Daniela, they are asked to call 911. To report any other information regarding the whereabouts of this missing person, please contact the Thunder Bay Police Service at (807) 684-1200.

TBPS Announces Recipients of New Internal Awards and Recognition Program

April 2, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service is proud to announce the first recipients of its new Internal Awards and Recognition Program. This initiative highlights the exceptional professionalism, courage, and innovation demonstrated by members of the Service in the course of their duties. Constable Ken Ogima and Constable Josh Pugh are being recognized for their actions during a high risk incident on December 26, 2024. Officers responded to reports of an armed individual near Highway 11/17 and Pebblestone Drive. Upon arrival, they located the male, who refused to comply with police commands. The situation escalated when the individual fired at Constable Pugh, narrowly missing him. Constable Ogima acted decisively, returning fire and incapacitating the suspect, preventing further risk to the public and to responding officers. Immediately following the exchange, Constable Pugh began administering first aid to the injured suspect—the same individual who had just attempted to harm him. His actions demonstrated professionalism, composure, and compassion under extreme pressure. Bravery Award & Chief’s Commendation – Constable Ken Ogima Lifesaving Award – Constable Josh Pugh The Service is also recognizing Aaron Dowswell for outstanding contributions that significantly improved operational efficiency between May and December 2024. Through self directed analysis and process redesign, Aaron achieved more than $200,000 in cost savings. A substantial portion of these savings resulted from transitioning numerous repair services from external vendors to in house delivery, improving both efficiency and cost effectiveness. Aaron’s initiative, creativity, and willingness to challenge established practices reflect the intent of the Award for Innovation and Problem Solving. His work has had a measurable and lasting impact on the Service. Innovation and Problem-Solving Award – Aaron Dowswell An officer with the Thunder Bay Police Service Intelligence Unit is being recognized for his actions while responding to a fatal collision on Highway 11/17 near Dorion. Upon arrival, the officer and an off duty paramedic attempted to rescue a driver from a burning vehicle. Despite their efforts, the individual could not be removed. As the fire intensified and the vehicle began to explode, the officer acted quickly to pull the paramedic to safety, preventing further injury or loss of life. Their actions demonstrated courage, clear judgment, and an unwavering commitment to protecting others in life threatening circumstances. Bravery Award – Thunder Bay Police Service Intelligence Officer These recipients exemplify the dedication, professionalism, and service to community that define the Thunder Bay Police Service. We congratulate each of them on their well deserved recognition. Quotes: “On behalf of the Thunder Bay Police Association (TBPA), I want to commend each of the award recipients for their professionalism, courage, and dedication to public safety,” explained TBPA President Colin Woods. “Their actions reflect the highest standards of policing and demonstrate the commitment our members bring to the community every day. We are proud to see their efforts recognized through this new awards program.” “These individuals exemplify the values and integrity of the Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS),” said TBPS Chief Darcy Fleury. “Their actions—whether in moments of extreme danger or through innovative work that strengthens our operations—demonstrate the professionalism and commitment that define our organization. I congratulate each of the recipients and thank them for their service to our community.”