Thunder Bay cyber crime investigation leads to charges

February 11, 2026

TB25028861


A Thunder Bay Police Service investigation into Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation Material (CSAEM) has led to charges.
 
Thunder Bay’s Cyber Crime Unit began the investigation on July 21, 2025, after receiving a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), via the National Child Exploitation Crime Centre (NCECC).
 
Officers searched a home on Thunder Bay’s south end on November 28, 2025.
 
Several electronic devices were seized.
 
As a result of the investigation, 28-year-old Jayden Belanger from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges:
 
• Possession of child sexual abuse and exploitation material 
• Access any child sexual abuse and exploitation material
 
The accused has been released from custody with a future court date.
 
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.
 
Tips for talking to your kids can be found, and 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.
 
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.
 
Anyone with information that could assist investigators is asked to please contact Detective Constable Joel Manherz at (807) 684-1200 ext. 4115.
 
Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, online at www.p3tips.com.

Fraud Friday: Driveway Paving Scams

April 10, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service is warning residents of a potential seasonal scam as the weather starts to warm up. Non-reputable driveway paving companies have previously operated in Thunder Bay. These services are often provided without a signed contract, and the providers will ask you to pay upfront. This is not standard for driveway renewals. Once they have received payment, little or no work is done, or they may request more money, claiming it’s necessary to be able to carry out the work. If the work is ever completed, it is often poor quality and could pose a safety hazard or need to be redone. Be cautious of unsolicited door-to-door offers. Look for multiple quotes and ask businesses for their contact information. The Thunder Bay Police Service’s Economic Crime Unit urges residents to speak to family members and friends who may be vulnerable to being targeted by these types of scams. If there is doubt about whether a repair or product is necessary, seek a second opinion from a trusted person or a certified professional. If you are concerned about potential scams and want to learn more, please visit https://www.thunderbaypolice.ca/safety/fraud-prevention or contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre ( http://www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/ )

Thunder Bay Police Service investigation leads to charge

April 10, 2026
TB26012593 A Thunder Bay Police Service investigation has resulted in a charge. Officers received a report from a local hospital on April 6, 2026, regarding an individual who had died after arriving with injuries consistent with an assault. The Major Crime Unit and Forensic Identification Unit began an investigation. The investigation determined the victim was initially transported to hospital on April 5, 2026, following an altercation at a local hotel. On April 9, 2026, officers with the Major Crime Unit, and Break, Enter, and Armed Robbery Unit located and arrested a suspect. As a result of the investigation, Jaykwon WAPOOSE, 21, has been charged with manslaughter. The accused has been remanded into custody with a future court date.

April 2026

April 9, 2026
Police Services Hero of the Year Award Nominees Three Thunder Bay Police Service members have been nominated for provincial Police Service Hero Awards. The Police Association of Ontario program invites members of the public to nominate their heroes for their bravery, dedication, and community contributions. Winners will be announced and celebrated on May 28. Congratulations to these TBPS nominees: Ken Ogima – On-Duty Difference Maker (Uniform) On December 26, 2024, Cst. Ken Ogima responded to a call involving an armed male on Hwy 11/17. When the suspect pointed a firearm at Cst. Josh Pugh and discharged a round into a police cruiser, Cst. Ogima made a split-second decision. Firing one round, he stopped the threat and prevented serious harm or death to his colleague. Officers then provided first aid. Cst. Ogima’s decisive, courageous actions reflect exceptional bravery and a steadfast commitment to protecting life under extreme risk. Sergeant Sean Shorrock – Community Role Model  Sgt. Sean Shorrock has demonstrated outstanding leadership and dedication through his long-standing involvement with the Thunder Bay Police Youth Corps. Since 1998, he has mentored youth, helping build confidence, leadership, and community engagement. As Commanding Officer, he has guided the program’s growth, creating meaningful opportunities for young people to develop life skills and positive relationships with police. His influence extends beyond the program, inspiring youth to pursue education, service, and leadership. Sgt. Shorrock’s commitment has strengthened community connections and made a lasting impact on countless young people