March 2025

March 3, 2025

Online reporting is convenient because people can report crimes any time from a home computer, tablet or smartphone. TBPS recently launched a new and expanded online reporting service which allows more types of non-emergency incidents to be reported online, while making it easier for users to upload photos or videos as evidence. Eligible report types include theft, vandalism, fraud, traffic violations, and missing identification. Incidents must have occurred within Thunder Bay Police Service jurisdiction. As always, in emergency situations, please call 911.


The new platform also allows people to have links to specific report types sent directly to them by text message. Users receive a confirmation once the report has been submitted and can choose to receive updates on the status of their report.


More information about the Thunder Bay Police Service online incident reporting system can be found here: https://thunderbaypolice.ca/services/online-reporting


Connecting with our Community Outreach Branch


The Community Outreach Branch consists of units focused on a variety of mandates. The common theme between each of these units is that they achieve their goals through strategic community partnerships. 


To support our partners and community members to more easily and directly access our specialized Community Outreach teams, new email addresses were created and are checked daily by Supervisors.   


  • The Community Inclusion Team (CIT) CIT strives to build positive relationships between police, Indigenous people, other racialized and underrepresented groups they serve. Email CIT@thunderbaypolice.ca
  • School Resource Officers (SRO) have a special relationship with the city’s schools and school boards. They are often called upon to provide students and school staff with educational presentations or conduct safety drills. Email SRO@thunderbaypolice.ca
  • Community Oriented Response and Engagement (CORE) officers are part of a high-visibility unit that identifies specific issues and problem areas of the city and executes projects focused on addressing the root problems. Email CORE@thunderbaypolice.ca
  • The Social Navigation Coordinator works closely with our Social Services partners within the region, assisting persons both in custody and in the community with access to supports such as housing, medical (mental health) supports, and food insecurity.

 

2023 by the numbers


In 2023, Members of the TBPS responded to 54,694 Calls for Service. The majority of those involve our Primary Response Branch. The Branch includes the Emergency Tactical Unit, which was involved in 115 High Risk calls for service in 2023.


That same year, there were a total of 2,911 motor vehicle collisions. 201 impaired driving charges were laid. 70 motor vehicle collisions involved impaired drivers.


Answering the call – Economic Crime Unit


Last week, TBPS issued a Scam Alert to the community regarding “Shoulder Surfers”. These are scammers who will closely watch customers when making purchases to obtain their personal identification number (PIN) before stealing the card and then using it for their own transactions. They often take advantage of seniors.


Our Economic Crime Unit (ECU) monitors and responds to this type of activity. The ECU investigates crimes related to financial fraud, money laundering, corruption, and other economic offenses. Members in this unit focus on identifying, preventing, and prosecuting illegal activities that harm individuals, businesses, or the economy, such as credit card fraud, tax evasion, or investment scams. They work closely with other law enforcement agencies and financial institutions to track and investigate financial crimes. Many financial crimes are globally driven and reach around the world. It’s common for the ECU to write production orders where results go overseas.


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


Thunder Bay Police Service Board


In February, the TBPS Board completed community consultations for the Board's strategic plan, with sessions held with Indigenous youth in the community. The Board remains fully committed and guided by its core principles of transparency, accountability, and community engagement.


At the February 2025 TBPS Board meeting, the Service presented updates on its ‘Procedures for Family Communications’ for victims of crime. This initiative outlines the processes by which the Service engages and maintains contact with victims and their families, even when there are limited leads or updates in ongoing cases. The full meeting highlights are available on the TBPS Board’s official website: https://thunderbaypsb.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/TBPSB-Meeting-Highlights-Feb.-18-2025-1.pdf


Coming up in March:


The TBPS Board is proud to sponsor and participate in Lakehead University's 35th Annual Powwow March 7 -9. Learn more at https://www.lakeheadu.ca/indigenous/events/event-archive/2024/node/252421


The Board's next meeting is on Tuesday, March 18th.


Submit your question anytime to news@thunderbaypolice.ca.


Primary Response Unit investigation leads to charges

April 7, 2026
TB26012417 A Thunder Bay Police Service response to a call for service has resulted in charges. Officers with the Primary Response Unit were sent to Oliver Road on the evening of April 4, 2026, in response to a report of an assault. Two injured individuals were located and transported to a local hospital for treatment. Further investigation led to a suspect being identified and located. As a result of the investigation, 27-year-old Scotlund CROMPTON from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Assault with a weapon • Aggravated assault • Assault causing bodily harm • Fail to comply with release order • Fail to comply with probation order The accused was remanded into custody with a future court date.

Update - Missing Person - Daniela NEKULIAK, 62

April 2, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service is continuing to request the public's assistance in locating missing person, Daniela NEKULIAK, 62. Today marks three-weeks since she was last seen. Investigators issued a Northwestern Ontario Region bulletin to all police services in Ontario on March 19, 2026, and continue to follow up on any leads from the community. The investigation remains ongoing. Daniela was last seen on Algoma Street North walking towards Boulevard Lake around 9:30 AM on the morning of March 12, 2026. She is described as a female, that stands roughly 5'4'’ tall with a medium build. She has medium-length grey hair, and brown eyes. If a member of the public spots Daniela, they are asked to call 911. To report any other information regarding the whereabouts of this missing person, please contact the Thunder Bay Police Service at (807) 684-1200.

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.”