SCAM ALERT: Explicit content extortion

March 10, 2025

The Thunder Bay Police Service is advising the public of an extortion scam that is currently circulating and targeting local residents.

Police have recently received multiple reports of people receiving messages containing a threat to have explicit images or videos of themselves posted online unless the recipients pay a fee.

 

The fraudsters may request payment in the form of gift cards, e-transfers, or cryptocurrency. These scammers are frequently located outside of Canada and do not have possession of any genuine images or videos of the individuals they are attempting to extort.

 

Anyone receiving these kinds of messages should disregard them and not respond. Do not send any form of payment.

 

The Thunder Bay Police Service’s Economic Crime Unit is urging family members and friends to speak to those who may be vulnerable to being targeted by this type of scam.

 

March is Fraud Prevention Month. For further information about various frauds and scams that may be circulating, please visit the Canadian Anti Fraud Centre online at: https://antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/index-eng.htm

 

To make a fraud/cyber crime online report to the Thunder Bay Police Service, please visit https://www.services.tryrubicon.com/thunder-bay-police-service/online-reports/report/fraud-cybercrime

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.

Investigation by Intelligence Unit leads to drug seizure and charges

April 24, 2026
TB26012173 A Thunder Bay Police Service Intelligence Unit investigation has led to charges. On April 2, 2026, a home on Algoma Street South was searched with the assistance of the Emergency Task Unit. During the search officers seized over 260 grams of suspected cocaine, 80 suspected Oxycodone-Percocet tablets, 329 suspected Nabilone capsules, over $30,000 cash and other items associated with drug trafficking. A suspect was also located and arrested. The total street value of the drugs seized is an estimated $45,000. As a result of the investigation, 40-year-old Cody VON BARGEN from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Possession of property obtained by crime over $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 2 substance for the purpose of trafficking VON BARGEN has also been charged with aggravated assault as a result of an outstanding warrant. The accused was remanded into custody after their first court appearance with a future court date.

Missing Person Timothy HERRICK, 42

April 24, 2026
TB26015049 The Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) is seeking the publics assistance in locating 42-year-old Timothy HERRICK. His family has not heard from him since April 9, 2026. HERRICK was reported missing to the Sudbury Police Service and TBPS is assisting with the investigation. Timothy is described as a white male standing 6’ 2”, weighing roughly 185 lbs, with long brown hair, and a brown goatee. 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 .