TBPS Announces Recipients of New Internal Awards and Recognition Program

April 2, 2026

The Thunder Bay Police Service is proud to announce the first recipients of its new Internal Awards and Recognition Program. This initiative highlights the exceptional professionalism, courage, and innovation demonstrated by members of the Service in the course of their duties.
 
Constable Ken Ogima and Constable Josh Pugh are being recognized for their actions during a high risk incident on December 26, 2024.
 
Officers responded to reports of an armed individual near Highway 11/17 and Pebblestone Drive.
 
Upon arrival, they located the male, who refused to comply with police commands.
 
The situation escalated when the individual fired at Constable Pugh, narrowly missing him.
 
Constable Ogima acted decisively, returning fire and incapacitating the suspect, preventing further risk to the public and to responding officers. Immediately following the exchange,
 
Constable Pugh began administering first aid to the injured suspect—the same individual who had just attempted to harm him.
 
His actions demonstrated professionalism, composure, and compassion under extreme pressure.
 
Bravery Award & Chief’s Commendation – Constable Ken Ogima
 
Lifesaving Award – Constable Josh Pugh
 
The Service is also recognizing Aaron Dowswell for outstanding contributions that significantly improved operational efficiency between May and December 2024.
 
Through self directed analysis and process redesign, Aaron achieved more than $200,000 in cost savings. A substantial portion of these savings resulted from transitioning numerous 
repair services from external vendors to in house delivery, improving both efficiency and cost effectiveness.
 
Aaron’s initiative, creativity, and willingness to challenge established practices reflect the intent of the Award for Innovation and Problem Solving. His work has had a measurable and lasting impact on the Service.
 
Innovation and Problem-Solving Award – Aaron Dowswell
 
An officer with the Thunder Bay Police Service Intelligence Unit is being recognized for his actions while responding to a fatal collision on Highway 11/17 near Dorion.
 
Upon arrival, the officer and an off duty paramedic attempted to rescue a driver from a burning vehicle. Despite their efforts, the individual could not be removed. As the fire intensified and the vehicle began to explode, the officer acted quickly to pull the paramedic to safety, preventing further injury or loss of life.
 
Their actions demonstrated courage, clear judgment, and an unwavering commitment to protecting others in life threatening circumstances.
 
Bravery Award – Thunder Bay Police Service Intelligence Officer
 
These recipients exemplify the dedication, professionalism, and service to community that define the Thunder Bay Police Service. We congratulate each of them on their well deserved recognition.
 
Quotes:
 
“On behalf of the Thunder Bay Police Association (TBPA), I want to commend each of the award recipients for their professionalism, courage, and dedication to public safety,” explained TBPA President Colin Woods.
 
“Their actions reflect the highest standards of policing and demonstrate the commitment our members bring to the community every day. We are proud to see their efforts recognized through this new awards program.”
 
“These individuals exemplify the values and integrity of the Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS),” said TBPS Chief Darcy Fleury.
 
“Their actions—whether in moments of extreme danger or through innovative work that strengthens our operations—demonstrate the professionalism and commitment that define our organization. I congratulate each of the recipients and thank them for their service to our community.”
 

Intelligence Unit investigation leads to charges

April 21, 2026
A Thunder Bay Police Service Intelligence Unit investigation with the assistance of the Ontario Provincial Police Organized Crime Enforcement Bureau has led to charges. On April 16th, 2026, two homes and two vehicles were searched on Anten Street and John Street. During the searches officers seized approximately 90 grams of suspected cocaine, a small amount of suspected fentanyl and more than $40,000 in Canadian cash. The street value of the drugs seized is estimated at $12,000. During the searches four suspects were located and arrested. As a result of the investigation, 31-year-old Emmanuel OWUSU from Toronto is facing the following charges: • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – cocaine • Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime over $5,000 The accused was released from custody with a future court date. Glenn BERNST a 61-year-old 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 – other drugs • Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime under $5,000 • Failure to comply with undertaking The accused was remanded into custody after their first court appearance with a future court date. A 31-year-old 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 – other drugs • Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime under $5,000 A 44-year-old from Thunder Bay is also facing the following charges: • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – cocaine • Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime under $5,000 The unnamed accused’s charges have not been read in court as they have been released under an undertaking with a future court date.

Project Eclipse leads to seizure of over $39,000 in stolen items and 256 charges

April 20, 2026
A Thunder Bay Police Service investigation called Project Eclipse has led to the seizure of over $39,000 in stolen items and 256 charges. The Thunder Bay Police Service Break, Enter, and Armed Robbery (BEAR) Unit led the investigation. The successful completion of this lengthy investigation was made possible through funding provided by the Ontario Government, Ministry of the Solicitor General in which the Criminal Intelligence Service Ontario supported this investigation. The investigation began in September 2025, running through February 2026. The project investigated thefts and robberies from numerous businesses in Thunder Bay. As a result of the investigation, the following charges have been laid: Edward HOGAN, 45, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 - shoplifting (three counts) • Fail to comply with probation order (six counts) • Trafficking in property obtained by crime • Fraud under $5,000 Aren POULIN, 31, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 - shoplifting • Fail to comply with probation order Christine PAULSON, 27, of Thunder Bay has been charged with theft under $5,000. Cody ALEXSON, 32, from Thunder Bay has been charged with theft under $5,000. Bradley Aho, 43, from Thunder Bay, is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 - shoplifting • Fail to comply with probation order Shaun TAYLOR, 42, from St Catharines is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 - shoplifting (three counts) Christian NEEKAN, 32, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 (two counts) Brandon THIBAULT, 31, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting (two counts) Mervyn MEEKIS, 30, from Thunder Bay has been charged with theft under $5,000 - shoplifting. Cory TOAL, 48, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000 (three counts) • Trafficking in property obtained by crime Jeffrey LEWIS, 47, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Trafficking in property obtained by crime • Possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000 (two counts) Jordan FISHER, 34, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Breach of recognizance • Failure to comply with release order • Failure to comply with undertaking • Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting Leela JOURDAIN, 40, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting (three counts) • Fail to comply with probation order (three counts) Sonny PATAYASH, 32, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 - shoplifting (three counts) Maggie WABASSE, 33, of Thunder Bay has been charged with theft under $5,000 - shoplifting. Richard PARKER, 31, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 - shoplifting (nine counts) • Fail to comply with probation order (nine counts) Adam BABOOLAL, 42, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 - shoplifting (five counts) • Trafficking in property obtained by crime • Fraud under $5,000 Carolyn COASTER, 33, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting (two counts) Drew MITCHELL, 31, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting • Assault with a weapon • Fail to comply with a probation order Harlan NANOKEESIC, 33, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting • Fail to comply with probation order Frances WABASSE, 33, of Thunder Bay has been charged with theft under $5,000 – shoplifting. Leo MANNING, 30, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting (three counts) • Fail to comply with probation order (four counts) Ralph ACKABEE, 42, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 - shoplifting • Obstruct peace officer Geraldine INEESE, 39, of Thunder Bay has been charged with theft under $5,000. Gary MATHEWS, 42, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 - shoplifting • Obstruct peace officer • Fail to comply with probation order Lester BOUCHARD, 49, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting (two charges) • Assault Kelsie COLLINS, 38, from Thunder Bay has been charged with theft under $5,000 – shoplifting. Justin ESQUEGA, 32, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting (two counts) • Possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000 • Assault a peace officer • Resist a peace officer • Fail to comply with probation order (two counts) Robert CAUL, 42, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting • Fail to comply with probation order Samantha FOX, 34, of Thunder Bay has been charged with theft under $5,000 – shoplifting. Bonnie THOMAS, 34, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting (three counts) • Possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000 • Fail to comply with probation order (three counts) Marly KAKEKAYASH, 35, of Thunder Bay has been charged with theft under $5,000 - shoplifting. Colton CORMIER, 31, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Assault • Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting • Obstruct peace officer • Fail to comply with probation order(nine counts) Jason ANDERSON, 37, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 • Fail to comply with probation order Jose MENDOZA CHICAS, 46, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting (three counts) Ryland BRISKA, 35, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 (four counts) Fawn TOSET, 43, of Thunder Bay has been charged with theft under $5,000. Rachel ANDERSON, 50, of Thunder Bay and Samantha MUNROE, 33, of Thunder Bay have been charged with theft under $5,000. Jordin FLYNN, 40, of Thunder Bay has been charged with theft under $5,000 – shoplifting. Peter-James ARNOLD, 40, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting (six counts) • Trafficking in property obtained by crime (four counts) • Fraud under $5,000 (three counts) Kendra WAINWRIGHT, 33, from Thunder Bay has been charged with theft under $5,000. Jason MORGAN, 50, of Thunder Bay has been charged with theft under $5,000. Jonah THOMAS, 33, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 - shoplifting (two counts) • Fail to comply with probation order (four counts) • Fail to comply with undertaking Corey ESSLEMONT, 39, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting (three counts) • Fail to comply with undertaking (three counts) • Fail to comply with probation order (three counts) • Trafficking in property obtained by crime (two counts) • Fraud under $5,000 Jeffrey PERREAULT, 53, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 • Uttering threats – cause death or bodily harm • Fail to comply with probation order Travis LOZER, 32, from Thunder Bay has been charged with Fraud under $5000. Keenan MATTINAS, 27, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Aggravated assault • Possession of weapon for dangerous purpose • Carrying concealed weapon • Disobeying order of court • Fail to comply with release order Dalton DEAN, 24, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 • Fail to comply with probation order John CLEMENZA, 59, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 • Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime under $5,000 Dakota SAGUTCH, 32, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Break, enter a place – commit indictable offence (four counts) • Disguise with intent (three counts) • Fail to comply with probation order (four counts) Megan TOWEDO, 36, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Break, enter a place – commit indictable offence (four counts) • Disguise with intent (four counts) Simon ANGECONEB, 30, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Robbery with violence • Fail to comply with probation order Anthony FRIZZELL, 65, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Robbery with violence • Disguise with intent (two counts) • Fail to comply with probation order (two counts) • Robbery Steven GERMAIN, 34, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 (two counts) • Fail to comply with probation order (two counts) • Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000 Christopher HILL, 37, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting (two counts) • Fail to comply with probation order (four counts) Quinn CHEECHOO, 31, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting • Fail to comply with probation order Brandon STUCKLESS, 33, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 • Dangerous operation Mickey NEALE, 40, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 • Fail to comply with probation order • Fail to comply with release order (two counts) Thomas STARESKI, 44, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting (22 counts) • Trafficking in property obtained by crime • Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000 • Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime under $5,000

Vehicle theft investigation leads to several charges

April 14, 2026
Update: TB26013520, TB26013636, TB26013331, TB26013233, TB26013087, TB26012596, TB26013449, TB26012768, TB26008439, TB26600553, TB25600502 A Thunder Bay Police Service investigation into multiple vehicle thefts has led to charges. Officers with the Primary Response Unit began the investigation on March 5, 2026, in response to encountering a stolen vehicle. Two suspects in the case fled from officers on more than one occasion during the investigation. Through the investigation, two suspects connected to the vehicle thefts were identified. On April 13, 2026, officers located and arrested a suspect. As a result of the investigation, 35-year-old Jeffrey BARNWELL from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Dangerous operation (four counts) • Flight from peace officer (four counts) • Operation while prohibited (four counts) • Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000 • Theft of motor vehicle (two counts) • Fraud under $5,000 • Theft under $5,000 (three counts) • Failure to comply with probation order (four counts) • Failure to comply with release order • Disobey court order • Cause disturbance • Assault with a weapon • Mischief under $5,000 Some of the accused’s charges relate to outstanding warrants. On April 14, 2026, following a police standoff in the Bay Street and Cornwall Avenue area, officers arrested a second suspect. As a result, Bradley TOMECK a 36-year-old from Thunder Bay is also facing the following charges: • Theft of motor vehicle (two counts) • Fail to comply with probation order (five counts) • Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000 (three counts) • Possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000 • Dangerous operation • Use of credit card • Operation while prohibited under the criminal code (16 counts)