Thunder Bay Police Service introduces new Safe Trade Zone
May 22, 2025
The Thunder Bay Police Service has launched a new initiative to help provide a safe option for people buying and selling through online marketplaces.
The Safe Trade Zone provides members of the public with designated parking spaces captured by video surveillance to complete person-to-person exchanges that had been arranged.
The Safe Trade Zone spaces at the police station provides users with an alternative to inviting strangers to their homes or potentially meeting in secluded areas, reducing the risk of thefts or robberies occurring.
The designated meeting place also helps sellers ensure they receive their expected funds. Cases of online fraud are particularly difficult to investigate. Repayment or reimbursement of lost funds is rare.
The idea was brought forward by police service members and proposed to senior leadership earlier this year where it received approval. The designated spaces were implemented this week.
The zone is accessible from the Balmoral Street entrance to the police station property and immediately to the right. Signage is in place marking the designated zone.
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 ).
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.
TB26033289 A Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) investigation has resulted in charges. Officers with the Primary Response Unit were dispatched to the Red River Road and Regent Street area on August 20, 2026, in response to a report of peace being disturbed. The individual left the scene prior to officers arriving. While officers were in the area the TBPS Communications Centre received a second call regarding a vehicle being damaged. Further investigation led to a suspect being located and arrested in the Algoma Street area. While officers were searching the suspect on scene, he attempted to gain access to an officer’s firearm. “This is another example of the importance of our officers’ training and professionalism that helps keep every situation controlled and safe for all involved.” Chief Darcy Fleury. As a result of the investigation, 34-year-old Sydney MEGAN from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Mischief under $5,000 • Obstruct peace officer • Disarming a peace officer • Fail to comply with probation order (three counts) The accused was remanded into custody following their first court appearance.
