Search warrant results in seizure of suspected cocaine

August 25, 2025

TB25033502

A drug trafficking investigation has resulted in the arrest of one person and the seizure of a significant amount of suspected cocaine.


The Thunder Bay Police Service Intelligence Unit obtained a search warrant for a local residence as a result of an investigation into suspected drug trafficking activity.


Members of the Intelligence Unit executed the warrant at a residence in the 300 block of John Street on the afternoon of Thursday, August 21, with assistance from members of the Nishnawbe Aski Police Service.


A male suspect was located within the residence. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.


A search of the residence resulted in the seizure of quantities of suspected cocaine, along with cash exceeding $5,000 and paraphernalia consistent with drug trafficking activity. The estimated street value of the seized drugs is more than $150,000.


James MCDONALD, 55, is charged with Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (Cocaine), and Possession of Property Obtained by Crime over $5,000.


The accused appeared in court on Friday and has been remanded into custody with a future appearance date.

October 3, 2025
The Thunder Bay Police Service is continuing to advise the public of scams that target local residents. Police regularly receive reports of residents who have been victimized by fraudulent residential rental scams. Residential rental scams happen when a person interested in renting a property believes they are communicating with the owner or landlord of an available property. The renter may be pressured into paying a deposit to view the property, or live elsewhere and be unable to view a property in person before agreeing to rent it. The renter pays a deposit, only to find that the property was never available for rent. The deposit – and the “landlord” - disappear. If the price seems too good to be true, it likely is. Red flags to watch for include the landlord asking for cash only, a cash security deposit, or money to be wired. Tips Don’t send money to anyone you have not met in person and/or for property you have not seen in person. Ask for identification from anyone showing you the property and write down the licence plate if they arrive in a vehicle. Search for owner information in the Land Titles office to confirm you are dealing with the owner. The Thunder Bay Police Service’s Economic Crime Unit urges residents to speak to family members and friends who may be vulnerable to being targeted by these types of scams. If you are concerned about potential scams and want to learn more, please visit https://www.thunderbaypolice.ca/safety/fraud-prevention or contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre ( http://www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/ ) 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
October 1, 2025
TB25039209