September 2026

September 11, 2026

Chat with the Chief


Chat with the Chief events are information sessions where community members have their questions answered by Chief Darcy Fleury. Open dialogue builds both understanding and trust.


“Listening to the people of Thunder Bay is essential to how we move forward as a police service," explained TBPS Chief Darcy Fleury.


"Community input has already shaped important initiatives like Project Support, and we want to continue building on that progress together.”

 

Here are some questions and answers that were discussed at the Chat with the Chief event held at 55 Plus Centre on Sept 3. 

Q: There were several questions about how TBPS addresses public disorder, open drug use and property crime.


A: Project Support strengthens public safety through visible patrols, community engagement, enforcement, and connections to local services. The initiative came about as a result of conversations with the community.

 

Q: Where do Project Support patrols happen?


A: They began in the north and south downtown cores and later expanded to other business areas, while continuing in the downtown areas.

 

Q: Why do some officers wear tactical gear while patrolling?


A: These officers are members of our Emergency Task Unit. They are specially trained and must be prepared to respond immediately to high-risk incidents.

 

Other Questions:

 

Q: If officers are attending a call, can they be called away to a higher priority?


A: Yes, this can happen when a response is required for a new call that involves an immediate threat to life, serious injury, or public safety and requires an urgent police response.

 

Q: What can be done about problem properties?


A: Housing conditions, maintenance issues, and landlord-tenant disputes are handled under civil and municipal laws rather than the Criminal Code. Police become involved when there is suspected criminal activity. Community members are encouraged to contact our non-emergency line at 807-684-1200 to report suspicious activity. Information helps to build cases and get search warrants. Several investigations have resulted in multiple arrests, often with assistance from information from the community.

 

Q: What happens to the cash and drugs seized during investigations?


A: The items are held as evidence until court proceedings are finished. After that, drugs are incinerated. Cash must be given to the Ministry of the Attorney General to support victim compensation and Community Safety and Policing Grants. 

Mark your calendar! Chat with Chief Darcy Fleury at the Waverly Library November 18. Symposium is at 5:30 pm and the event begins at 6:00 pm. To submit your questions in advance click here: Chat with the Chief - Fall 2026

From cadet to police officer 


People often ask about the journey from cadet to police officer. Here are some common questions and answers.


Q. Are cadets paid?


A. Yes. Cadets are employees of the Thunder Bay Police Service who receive pay throughout their Cadet journey. They start on a 12-month contract and continue to receive bi-weekly pay cheques even while away at Ontario Police College.

 

Q. Do you need a specific college or university program to apply?


A. No. To be eligible to apply for the Cadet program, you must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent. Post-secondary education can strengthen your application, but it is not required.

 

Q. How long does it take to go from cadet to police officer?


A. Timing can vary, but it usually takes 6 to 12 months. This includes applying, completing assessments, interviewing, undergoing background checks and completing the 12-week Basic Constable Training at the Ontario Police College.

 

Q. Do cadets have to pay for Police College?


A. No. At this time, there is no tuition cost to the Basic Constable Training Program. This is due to a recent government initiative to boost police recruitment and alleviate any financial barriers for aspiring police offers.

 

Q. What do cadets do?


A. Cadets work alongside experienced officers and civilian members while learning about the many areas of policing. Through hands-on experience, training, and exposure to different areas in the Service, cadets build practical skills, develop their understanding of community policing, and prepare for a future as a Police Constable.

 

Q. Do you have to be in your 20s to become a police officer?


A. Not at all. Many TBPS officers began their policing careers after working in other fields, including business, healthcare, trades, education, customer service, the military, and social services. Their previous experience brings valuable skills, knowledge, and life experience to policing.

 

If you are considering a career in policing, you do not have to do it alone. We will support you throughout your journey.

 

Answer the Call: learn more about our cadet program at https://www.thunderbaypolice.ca/careers/cadet-program. Visit https://www.thunderbaypolice.ca/careers for career opportunities.

Buying or selling online?

Whether you’re buying or selling, make the exchange safely in the designated Safe Trade Zone at 1200 Balmoral Street. Using the safe trade space at our headquarters protects you from theft, robbery, and violence when completing online marketplace transactions. 

Submit your questions any time at news@thunderbaypolice.ca

Update from The Thunder Bay Police Service Board


After a busy summer, the Board is pleased to continue our work with a new addition to our team.


New Executive Director


The Board is pleased to announce Christy Radbourne as the Board’s new Executive Director. 


Radbourne is a seasoned educator, leader, researcher, and former federal law enforcement professional, bringing more than two decades of experience in public education, and a decade of investigative service in the United States.


Her law enforcement career focused on complex investigations involving fraud, domestic terrorism, internal corruption and environmental crimes, working closely with prosecutors and within the court system. 


After immigrating to Canada, she built a distinguished career in education, serving as Director of Education and Chief Executive Officer of the Keewatin Patricia District School Board and as a Student Achievement Officer with the Ontario Ministry of Education.


Christy is currently pursuing doctoral studies, with a focus on equity-focused leadership, Indigenous education, strategic planning and community partnerships.

Christy lives in Thunder Bay with her partner. She is a mother to two children.


Welcome Christy!


Read more about our new Executive Director here: https://thunderbaypsb.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Press-Release-New-Board-Executive-Director.pdf

Board Meetings Resume


The next board meeting is Tuesday, September 15.


The Board welcomes members of the public and media to attend meetings in-person, at Board Headquarters at 1111 Victoria Ave E, Unit #102. 


Board Meetings are also broadcast live locally on Rogers TV Thunder Bay (Channel 10 and 105 for Rogers Cable subscribers.)


The Board meeting is streamed live, with livestream info posted publicly on social media, closer to the meeting date.

Thunder Bay Police Service Charity Gala to return in 2027

September 10, 2026
Following the success of its inaugural event, the Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) is pleased to announce that its Charity Gala will return on February 27, 2027, at the Italian Cultural Centre. “On behalf of the Thunder Bay Police Service, I want to thank every member, guest, sponsor, donor and volunteer who made our inaugural Gala an outstanding success,” said TBPS Chief Darcy Fleury. “Their enthusiasm and generosity set the stage for the Gala’s return, and we are committed to delivering an even bigger and better event in 2027.” Feedback from members, guests and sponsors was overwhelmingly positive after the first Gala, which welcomed more than 270 guests and raised over $68,000. Building on that momentum, the 2027 event aims to raise $70,000. “I am proud to recognize RBC and Tbaytel as presenting sponsors. They are valued community partners whose leadership and commitment helps make Thunder Bay a stronger, safer, and more vibrant place for everyone,” said Fleury. Funds raised will once again support Special Olympics Thunder Bay and BGC Thunder Bay, helping both organizations continue to provide valuable programs and opportunities in the community. “We are grateful to everyone who helped make the first Gala such a success,” said the CEO of BGC Thunder Bay Albert Aiello. “The support generated through this event creates meaningful opportunities for young people in our community, and we are honoured to be a beneficiary again in 2027.” “The inaugural Gala made a tremendous difference for our athletes, and we are grateful for the community’s continued support,” said Special Olympics Thunder Bay Community Coordinator James Stolz. “Being chosen again for 2027 means more opportunities for athletes to train, compete, and build confidence. We’re honoured to be part of an event that celebrates inclusion and strengthens our community.” Businesses and organizations are invited to support the 2027 TBPS Charity Gala presented by RBC and Tbaytel, by sponsoring the event or donating items for the live and silent auctions. Their support will help create an even greater impact for the two beneficiary charities. Ticket sales will be limited. Details about availability will be announced at a later date, and TBPS looks forward to welcoming the community back for another memorable evening in support of local youth and athletes.

TBPS and RCMP announce launch of joint marine patrols

September 9, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police are announcing that joint marine patrols are underway in the Thunder Bay area. The patrols began on July 8, 2026, and now take place regularly. Two TBPS members from each Primary Response Unit are participating, following training provided by the RCMP in June 2026. The patrols are being conducted as part of a Joint Marine Unit utilizing an RCMP vessel. Patrols are proactive, planned joint marine patrol operations with the RCMP on Lake Superior and navigable waters outside TBPS jurisdiction. This partnership reflects updated provincial standards under the Community Safety and Policing Act, including clearer expectations for coordinated work between police services and partner agencies. During patrols members will be looking to ensure safe waterways in Thunder Bay and on navigable waters outside of TBPS’ jurisdiction. The patrol areas include: • Border Enforcement up to and including Pigeon River; • Lake Superior outside of the break wall; • Isle Royale, Silver Islet, Pie Island, Thompson Island; • Thunder Bay Marina; • Kam River Patrols have indicated a high level of waterway safety compliance, and these patrols are in place to ensure that continues. The goal of the initiative is to: • Enforce applicable federal, provincial, and municipal authorities on navigable waters outside TBPS jurisdiction; • To maximize existing RCMP marine capabilities through coordinated deployment; • To enhance enforcement through the combined exercise of federal, provincial, and municipal authorities

Thunder Bay Police Service announces the results of Project Support

September 8, 2026
A Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) Operational Support Unit Project has resulted in hundreds of social service referrals and dozens of arrests.  Project Support launched on April 20, 2026, as a focused public-safety and community-support initiative in Thunder Bay’s north and south downtown cores. The initiative combined high-visibility foot and vehicle patrols, proactive engagement, lawful enforcement, business outreach, and social service referrals. As the project progressed, TBPS broadened the deployment in response to recurring calls for service at other high-activity commercial locations. Additional resources were assigned to Memorial Avenue and Dawson Road areas beginning on July 9, 2026. The expanded response utilized personnel and expertise from across the Thunder Bay Police Service. In addition to the officers assigned directly to Project Support from Community Service and the Emergency Task Unit, the Project included support from Primary Response, the Break, Enter and Robbery (BEAR) Unit, Investigative Services and Special Constable deployments. This coordinated model increased officer visibility, supported investigations and warrant enforcement, and allowed officers to respond quickly to emerging problems across the expanded Project area. During the course of Project Support TBPS recorded: · More than 9,100 engagements with businesses and the public · 343 service referrals offered · 89 service referrals were accepted · 78 arrests were made · 74 provincial offence notices were issued Project Support used a balanced approach: visible policing and proportionate enforcement were paired with voluntary referrals, wellness checks, medical assistance and direct engagement with community partners. As a pilot, Project Support has concluded. However, based on the outcomes of the pilot project, visible patrols will continue in Thunder Bay’s commercial areas. The final activity results demonstrate sustained proactive policing across the original downtown zones and the expanded Thunder Centre and Dawson Road deployments. The addition of resources from Primary Response, BEAR, Investigative Services and Special Constable deployments allowed the Service to respond directly to business and community concerns.