February 2025

February 1, 2025

The Thunder Bay Police Service continues to have above national average clearance rates. This accomplishment is even more impressive in the context of crime severity in our community. The Crime Severity Index combines both how often crimes happen and how severe they are. Our community is among the highest for provincial and national crime severity. Clearance rates refer to the percentage of reported crimes that are successfully solved, usually through an arrest or charges. Clearance rates indicate how effectively our dedicated members are addressing serious crimes.


Statistics Canada will publish the 2024 statistics in July of 2025. It is anticipated that TBPS Clearance Rates will remain the highest. 


Taking action on recommendations


Over a year ago, the Law Enforcement Complaints Agency (LECA), formerly the Office of the Independent Police Review Director (OIPRD), acknowledged that TBPS had addressed all recommendations in the “Broken Trust” report. As recommended, the TBPS continues to have open communication and case conferences to ensure Forensic Identification Unit Officers have the information they need to conduct informed and thorough investigations. Furthermore, the TBPS has reviewed and implemented an updated Sudden Death Procedure which was informed by multiple subject matter experts and the Coroner’s Office. The LECA Complaint’s Director commended TBPS’s extensive efforts and dedication in this initiative. 


Did you know?


The TBPS fleet includes 108 vehicles. In 2023, they travelled 1,574,730 kilometres.


Answering the call – Training Unit


The TBPS Training Unit is responsible for educating and preparing police officers by teaching essential skills, procedures, and tactics needed for their duties effectively and safely. It covers a wide range of topics, including law enforcement procedures, physical fitness, legal training, conflict resolution, weapons handling, and handling high-pressure situations. In 2024 TBPS officers and Special Constables were assigned to complete new training as legislated by the Canadian Safety and Policing Act (CSPA). The training, called “Navigating the Complexities of Hate – A Primer for Law Enforcement”, educates our members to respond to these incidents and offences in a way that recognizes and validates the varying nuances of trauma for individuals and communities who have experienced hate.


Upon completion of Basic Constable Training at the Ontario Police College Police officers continue to receive annual training that is mandated by the CSPA as well as additional training in various areas. The training is delivered by certified instructors from the Training Unit and other Certified Instructors.


Interested in a career in policing? TBPS offers a wide range of opportunities. To learn more, visit thunderbaypolice.ca/careers.


Submit your question anytime to news@thunderbaypolice.ca.

Missing Person: Ivory PANACHEESE, 24

August 29, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service is requesting the public’s assistance in locating 24-year-old Ivory PANACHEESE. PANACHEESE is described as an Indigenous female standing approximately 5’10” weighing roughly 140 lbs, with shoulder-length blonde hair, brown eyes, and a tattoo of the letter R near her left eye.  If you have any information about the whereabouts of this missing person, please contact police at (807) 684-1200. Submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, online at www.p3tips.com.

Fraud Friday: AI generated scam videos

August 28, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) is reminding residents to be cautious when viewing online videos and advertisements that promote investment opportunities, cryptocurrency purchases, or quick‑profit schemes. TBPS has received reports regarding this type of scam before. This advisory is being shared to help the public recognize the potential risk and take precautions. Fraudsters are increasingly using AI‑generated videos to make their scams appear legitimate. These videos may feature fabricated spokespeople, altered public figures, or realistic‑looking presenters encouraging viewers to invest or send money. AI‑generated content can be difficult to spot, but there are common red flags. Protect yourself: • Inconsistencies with speech and mouth movements, or a speaker who appears unnaturally still. • Inconsistencies in lighting. • Eyes that lack vibrancy or appear unnatural. • Blurred edges, angles, or facial features, including “face wobble.” • Unnatural eye direction or blinking. • Missing facial features or missing details in glasses, hair, or teeth. • Overly smooth skin. • Misalignment in facial symmetry or features that do not match (for example, ears that differ noticeably). Verify any offers by contacting the company directly using a trusted source of information. If a video or advertisement seems suspicious, do not engage with it. Report suspicious activity to the Thunder Bay Police Service.  If you have lost money or disclosed personal or financial information, contact your financial institution immediately and report the incident to police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre ( https://antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/index-eng.htm ).

Thunder Bay Police Service Cyber Crime Unit investigation leads to charges

August 27, 2026
TB26004555 A Thunder Bay Police Service Cyber Crime Unit investigation has resulted in charges. The investigation began in February 2026, in response to a report of an individual possessing and attempting to access Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation Material (CSAEM) through the Bing search engine. In July a home was searched on Thunder Bay’s south end leading to the seizure of 10 electronic devices. On August 26, 2026, a suspect turned themselves in to the Thunder Bay Police Service Station. As a result of the investigation, 40-year-old Blair O’CONNOR from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Access any child sexual abuse and exploitation material • Possession of child sexual abuse and exploitation material The accused was released from custody following their first court appearance with a future court date. Anyone with information that could assist investigators is asked to please contact Detective Constable Joel Manherz at (807) 684-1200 ext. 4115. Tips can be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, online at www.p3tips.com . The Thunder Bay Police Service recognizes that parents and caregivers are the frontline when it comes to protecting children on the Internet and electronic devices. We encourage you to remain vigilant in your efforts – the safety tips outlined below are recommended for children of any age. Reporting of any online exploitation can also be made at Canada’s National Tipline for Reporting the Online Sexual Exploitation of Children at cybertip.ca. This project has been made possible by a grant from the Ministry of the Solicitor General. There are also resources available through the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health for those who have a sexual interest in children. The new Talking for Change ( https://talkingforchange.ca/ ) program is the first of its kind in Canada and provides national and all-ages help for those concerned about their risk to use child sexual exploitation material or offend sexually against a child.