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.

Update: Thunder Bay Police Service Primary Response Unit investigation leads to arrest

September 25, 2026
A Thunder Bay Police Service Primary Response Unit investigation has resulted in multiple charges. Officers with the Primary Response Unit and Operational Support Unit were dispatched to a business in the Court Street South area at approximately 10:05 AM on September 25, 2026, in response to a weapons call for service. The suspect left the scene before officers arrived. A search of the area led to the suspect being located and arrested. A search of the accused led to the seizure of two-edged weapons. As a result of the investigation 24-year-old Silas KING from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: Uttering threats – damage property Mischief under $5,000 Resist peace officer Possession of weapon for dangerous purpose The accused was remanded into custody following their first court appearance.

Thunder Bay Police Service Intelligence Unit investigation leads to seizure of roughly $25,000 worth of illegal drugs

September 25, 2026
TB26038465 A Thunder Bay Police Service Intelligence Unit investigation has resulted in charges. The investigation began in September 2026, in response to reports of drug trafficking. On September 23, 2026, officers with the Emergency Task Unit, Intelligence Unit, and Break, Enter, and Robbery (BEAR) Unit searched a home in the Ogden Street area. A search of the home led to the seizure of roughly four grams of suspected crack cocaine and under one gram of suspected fentanyl, along with other items associated with drug trafficking. During the search two suspects were located and arrested. Later that same day officers located and arrested a third suspect. A search of the suspect led to the seizure of a loaded firearm, as well as over 100 grams of suspected cocaine, 27 grams of suspected fentanyl, and 9 hydromorphone tablets. The street value of the seized drugs is approximately $25,000. As a result of the investigation, 40-year-old Boiyce NIEMI from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – cocaine • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – opioid (two counts) • Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime under $5,000 • Carrying concealed weapon • Unauthorized possession of weapon • Unauthorized possession of prohibited device or ammunition • Possession of loaded prohibited or restricted firearm • Unauthorized possession of a prohibited or restricted firearm • Knowledge of unauthorized possession of firearm • Possession of firearm or ammunition contrary to prohibition order As a result of the investigation 49-year-old Chris Robert MORIN from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – cocaine • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – opioid • Failure to comply with release order As a result of the investigation 46-year-old William GODICK from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – cocaine • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – opioid All of the accused were remanded into custody following their first court appearance.

Thunder Bay Police Service emphasises school traffic safety alongside community partners as the 2026/2027 school year continues

September 24, 2026
With the 2026/2027 school year underway, the Thunder Bay Police Service is reminding residents about traffic safety in school zones and all Thunder Bay roads. Drivers should be aware of increased youth pedestrian traffic in and around school zones. Many students will utilize city crosswalks on their journey to school. Drivers should ensure that they remain observant and are prepared to stop for crossing guards at crosswalks. According to the Ontario Highway Traffic Act, drivers should wait for the crossing guard to return to the sidewalk prior to continuing their drive. Following the Act supports safer roads while drivers can avoid the following penalties: (a) for a first offence, to a fine of not less than $300 and not more than $1,000; and (b) for each subsequent offence, to a fine of not less than $500 and not more than $1,000. School buses are also back on local roadways. Motorists are asked to make sure they are stopping for school buses that have a sign out and lights flashing. According to the Ontario Highway Traffic Act, every driver when approaching from the front or rear of a stopped school bus that has its stop arm actuated, shall stop and shall not proceed until the bus moves or the stop arm is no longer extended. Following the Act protects the community while ensuring that drivers avoid the following penalties: (a) for a first offence, to a fine of not less than $400 and not more than $2,000; and (b) for each subsequent offence, to a fine of not less than $1,000 and not more than $4,000 or to imprisonment for a term of not more than six months, or to both. Drivers are reminded to adhere to posted speed limits in school zones and community safety zones. Reduced speeds are in place to protect children who may be walking, cycling, or crossing the roadway during peak travel periods. The Thunder Bay Police Service Traffic Unit remains committed to public safety and will continue proactive enforcement to ensure the protection of students, families, and all road users.