Suspect involved in grandparent scam arrested

October 14, 2026

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An arrest has been made in connection with grandparent scam activity that had been reported in Thunder Bay.


The Thunder Bay Police Service Economic Crime Unit commenced an investigation after receiving several reports of local residents who had received phone calls from apparent scammers.


The investigation found that a male suspect was present in the city and involved in collecting funds from potential victims.


A suspect was arrested with assistance from the Break, Enter and Armed Robbery (BEAR) Unit after being recognized by an off-duty officer.


A 56-year-old male from Quebec is charged with Fraud Over $5,000, Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000, and Personating a Peace Officer.


The accused was remanded into custody following an initial court appearance.


The Economic Crimes Unit is continuing to investigate. Anyone who believes they have also been victimized by this scam, or has information that can assist the ongoing investigation, is asked to contact (807) 684-1200 or use the Thunder Bay Police Service online reporting system.


The grandparent scam involves phone calls to potential victims claiming that a family member was involved in an accident or had been arrested, with money being urgently needed to assist with their situation. The fraudster may claim to be a lawyer, police officer, or have some other role with the court system. The scammers may also use spoofing to have call display appear to show a legitimate phone number.


These calls typically target elderly residents or other vulnerable individuals.


If you are concerned about potential scams and want to learn more, please visit our Fraud Prevention page https://www.thunderbaypolice.ca/safety/fraud-prevention) or contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (http://www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/)


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Thunder Bay Police Service highlighting Crime Prevention Week through education and awareness

November 2, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service is joining police services and community partners across Ontario in recognizing Crime Prevention Week. Crime Prevention Week is an opportunity to highlight the role everyone plays in building safe and resilient communities. Crime prevention is most effective when police, community organizations, businesses, governments, and residents work together through education, awareness, reporting, and community engagement. Throughout the week, the Thunder Bay Police Service will share information, resources, and practical crime prevention tips through its social media channels. Topics will focus on ways residents can reduce their risk of victimization and contribute to community safety. Residents who witness suspicious activity or become victims of crime are encouraged to report it. Non-emergency reports can be made by calling 807-684-1200 or online at: https://www.services.tryrubicon.com/thunder-bay-police-service/online-reports Emergencies can be reported to 911. Information provided by the public can help identify crime trends, support investigations, and address emerging community safety concerns. Follow the Thunder Bay Police Service on social media for crime prevention information, resources, and tips aimed at helping build a safer Thunder Bay.

Fraud Friday: Fraudsters posing as cell service providers in Thunder Bay area

October 30, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service is warning residents after receiving a report regarding a scam in which individuals are contacted by someone claiming to be from their cell service provider. The caller may offer a phone upgrade, loyalty discount, or other promotional deal.  Using personal or account information, the scammer then orders a device through a legitimate service provider. The scammer may already possess some of the victim's personal information before making contact. After the device arrives, the victim may receive another call from someone claiming to represent the service provider. In some cases, the scammers rely on the victim contacting them directly about the unexpected shipment. In some instances, multiple devices may be shipped to the victim's address. When victims inquire about the unexpected shipment, scammers may provide a fraudulent return address or send a prepaid shipping label. The package is then redirected to an address controlled by the scammer rather than the legitimate company. Prevention Tips: · Avoid purchasing products through unsolicited phone calls. Contact the company directly to verify any offers. · Do not use unexpected return labels without confirming they are legitimate. · Contact your provider directly regarding deals. Use the official phone number on the company’s website to verify any return request. · Check your account. Review your account through the provider’s official app or website for unfamiliar orders or changes. For further information about various frauds and scams that may be circulating, please visit https://www.thunderbaypolice.ca/safety/fraud-prevention or 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