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.

Fraud Alert: Inheritance Scam

March 2, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service is advising the public about a mail based inheritance scam currently circulating in the community. The Economic Crime Unit has received reports of residents receiving letters that appear to come from an accounting firm. The letters claim that a relative has passed away and that the recipient may be entitled to a large inheritance. Individuals who respond are typically asked to provide personal information or advance fees under the false promise of receiving funds. These letters are fraudulent. Members of the public are advised not to contact the sender. For information about common frauds and how to protect yourself, visit the Thunder Bay Police Service’s fraud prevention resources at: https://www.thunderbaypolice.ca/safety/fraud-prevention or the Canadian Anti Fraud Centre at: https://antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/index-eng.htm To file an online fraud or cybercrime report with the Thunder Bay Police Service, visit: https://www.services.tryrubicon.com/thunder-bay-police-service/online-reports/report/fraud-cybercrime

Police presence expected on Thunder Bay’s south end

March 2, 2026
TB26007891  A visible police presence is expected in the Hall Place area. Thunder Bay Police Service officers were dispatched to the area on the evening of March 1, 2026. There is no threat to public safety. No further information is available at this time. Updates will be provided to media when they become available.

Crime against elders investigation leads to charges

February 27, 2026
TB26005390 A Thunder Bay resident is facing a manslaughter charge following a Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) Investigation. On February 10, 2026, TBPS’ Crime Against Elders officer received information about an assault that took place on February 4, 2026, at an assisted living facility. A victim was transported to the Thunder Bay Regional Health Science Centre on February 5, 2026. On February 18, 2026, the victim, an 81-year-old from Thunder Bay, died in hospital. As a result of the investigation, a 58-year-old Thunder Bay resident has been charged with Manslaughter. The accused has been released with an undertaking and a future court date.