Thunder Bay Police Service to host inaugural Gala

October 14, 2025

Today, Chief Darcy Fleury announced the details of the inaugural Thunder Bay Police Services Gala. The event celebrates the exceptional work of the dedicated TBPS members and acknowledges the unwavering support of our community.

 

“This premier formal event will bring together community members and leaders, business partners and distinguished guests to celebrate the outstanding individuals of the Thunder Bay Police Service and the community they so proudly serve,” noted Fleury.

 

The TBPS Gala will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at the Italian Cultural Centre and feature a gourmet dining experience, live musical entertainment, and thrilling live and silent auctions. The TBPS Gala also serves as a fundraiser for Special Olympics Thunder Bay and The Boys and Girls Club - BGC Thunder Bay. These organizations help local children and youth reach their full potential.

 

Special Olympics Thunder Bay empowers athletes with intellectual disabilities through inclusive sport programming. Special Olympics dedicates itself to year-round sports training and competitions in Olympic-style sports for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

 

"The Thunder Bay Police Service choosing to support Special Olympics Thunder Bay creates more than just awareness—it creates opportunity. This partnership is vital in helping our athletes grow, compete, and connect through the power of sport," said Denita Minoletti, Treasurer/Coordinator, Special Olympics Thunder Bay.

 

The Boys and Girls Club - BGC Thunder Bay has been serving Thunder Bay’s children and youth for over 50 years. They aim to provide a positive experience to all their members between 4-18 years of age. Through their programs and services, they promote a sense of belonging, self-esteem, appreciation and ensure there is something for everyone at the club.

 

Albert Aiello, Chief Executive Officer, Boys and Girls Club - BGC Thunder Bay said, "Strong community partnerships are at the heart of everything we do at BGC Thunder Bay. The ongoing support from our generous local business community, in collaboration with organizations like the Thunder Bay Police Service, is vital to helping us deliver life-changing programs and opportunities to children and youth across our city."
 

Honour Heroes. Empower Community.

 

Sponsors make events like this one a success. Businesses are invited to learn more about sponsorship opportunities by contacting cindy.bonthron@thunderbaypolice.ca or at 2026 TBPS Gala | Thunder Bay Police Service | Thunderbay

 

Ticket sales will be made available in the weeks to come. Details to follow. 

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.