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.”
 

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.