Three arrested, cocaine seized following search warrant

June 25, 2025

TB25019537 & TB25024831

A drug investigation has resulted in three people being arrested.


The Thunder Bay Police Service Intelligence Unit began an investigation last month after receiving information that a male was in possession of a handgun, ammunition, and a quantity of suspected cocaine and oxycodone. The handgun, ammunition and illicit substances were all seized by police in May.


The investigation led to the Intelligence Unit and Emergency Task Unit executing a search warrant at a McLaughlin Street residence on Tuesday, June 24.


Three suspects were located and arrested.


A search of the residence led to police seizing a further quantity of suspected cocaine, along with an amount of cash believed to exceed $5,000 and paraphernalia consistent with drug trafficking.


Tayvon VERNON, 24, of Oshawa is charged with Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (Cocaine) x2, Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose, Unauthorized Possession of a Weapon, Careless Storage of a Firearm, Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm, Knowledge of Unauthorized Possession of a Weapon, Possession of Prohibited or Restricted Firearm with Ammunition, Possession of Firearm or Ammunition contrary to Prohibition Order, Possession of Property Obtained by Crime over $5,000, and Failure to Comply with a Probation Order x2.


Tanisha KING, 25, of London, is charged with Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (Cocaine), and Possession of Property Obtained by Crime over $5,000, and Failure to Comply with a Release Order.


Scott MILLARD, 62, of Thunder Bay, is charged with Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (Cocaine), and Possession of Property Obtained by Crime over $5,000.


The accused individuals appeared in court on Wednesday and have been remanded into custody with future appearance dates.

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.