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.


Investigation into the use of bear spray at local annual fair leads to multiple charges

August 12, 2026
TB26031133

Intelligence Unit drug trafficking investigation leads to charges

August 11, 2026
TB26030742 A Thunder Bay Police Service drug trafficking investigation has resulted in charges. As part of the investigation, Intelligence Unit officers searched a home in the Pearl Street area on August 4, 2026. During the search, two individuals were located and arrested. Quantities of suspected cocaine, cash, and items associated with drug trafficking were also seized. As a result of the investigation, 38-year-old Crystal IDZI from Thunder Bay and 46-year-old Micheal MOCK of Thunder Bay are 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 Both of the accused were remanded into custody following their first court appearance.

Thunder Bay Police Service response to weapons call leads to charges

August 10, 2026
TB26031031 A Thunder Bay Police Service investigation has resulted in charges. Officers with the Primary Response Unit were dispatched to the Syndicate Avenue South and Donald Street East area around 10:00 AM on August 6, 2026, in response to multiple reports regarding a stabbing. On scene three victims were located. One individual was transported to a local hospital for treatment of their injuries, which are considered not to be life-threatening. The Break, Enter, and Robbery Unit became involved in the investigation. Further investigation led to a suspect being identified. A search of the area led to the suspect being located and arrested. As a result of the investigation, 45-year-old Lazarus YELLOWHEAD of Webequie First Nation is facing the following charges: • Aggravated assault • Assault with a weapon • Assault • Resist peace officer • Failure to comply with a release order The accused was remanded into custody following their first court appearance.