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TB26016630 The Thunder Bay Police Service is requesting the public’s assistance in locating 19-year-old Dennis LESNICK. Dennis was last seen on April 30, 2026, in the Belton Road area. He is described as a white male, standing 5’ 6”, with a thin build, shoulder length blonde hair, and blue eyes. LESNICK adjusts his facial hair at times, often seen with mustache or a goatee. 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.
TB26016708 A Thunder Bay Police Service Intelligence Unit investigation has led to a large drug seizure and charges. The investigation began in April 2026. On May 5, 2026, officers located and arrested a suspect and searched a home and vehicle in the Munro Street area. During the searches a total of over 700 grams of suspected cocaine was seized, along with over $20,000 in Canadian cash. The estimated street value of the suspected illicit drugs is $70,000. As a result of the investigation, 30-year-old Jayden MASSEY from Ajax, Ontario is facing the following charges: • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – cocaine • Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000 The accused was remanded into custody after their first court appearance.
TB25038076 A Thunder Bay Police Service Cyber Crime Unit investigation has led to charges. The investigation began in September 2025, after the Cyber Crime Unit received information about an individual in the city uploading Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation Material (CSAEM) to their Google Photos account. In February 2026, a home was searched on Thunder Bay’s south end leading to the seizure of multiple electronic devices. On May 5, 2026, a suspect turned themselves in. As a result of the investigation, 27-year-old Ira BENSON from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Possession of child sexual abuse and exploitation material • Access any child sexual abuse and exploitation material • Make child sexual abuse and exploitation material • Sexual assault The accused was remanded into custody after 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.
TB26015704 An investigation by the Thunder Bay Police Service Intelligence Unit with the assistance of the Break, Enter, and Armed Robbery (BEAR) Unit has led to the seizure of suspected illegal drugs and charges. The investigation led to a home and vehicle being searched in the Limbrick Street area on April 28, 2026. During the searches suspected crack cocaine, suspected fentanyl, morphine capsules, items associated with drug trafficking and over $8,000 Canadian cash was seized. The approximate total value of the suspected controlled substances is $81,600.00. As a result of the investigation, 31-year-old Justine BEELEY of Thunder Bay and 43-year-old Jeffery MCCARTHY of Thunder Bay are facing the following charges: • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – cocaine • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – opioid • Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000 Both of the accused were released from custody following their first court appearance, with a future court date.
TB26007663, TB26008444, TB26015656 A Thunder Bay Police Service investigation has led to charges. On February 28, 2026, officers with the Traffic Unit were on patrol in the Simpson Street area. A bright blue Dodge pickup truck was seen exiting a business parking lot with invalid plates. Officers determined that the driver of the vehicle was using a plate not authorized for the vehicle, and initiated a traffic stop on Walsh Street East. While an officer was approaching the vehicle, the driver put the car in reverse and drove towards the officer at a high rate of speed hitting a police cruiser, before leaving the scene. No officers sustained injuries during the interaction. The pickup truck was located a short while later at the intersection of Arthur Street East and Syndicate Avenue south in a snowbank. The driver had fled the scene. On March 6, 2026, officers with the Primary Response Unit were on patrol in the Windsor Street South area when they located a sleeping driver behind the wheel of a running vehicle with incorrect plates. When officers tried to speak to the driver, they fled the scene. On April 28, 2026, officers located the suspect in both incidents. Officers with the Community Oriented Response and Engagement (CORE) Unit arrested the suspect in the Pearl Street area while on patrol as part of Project Support an initiative aimed at addressing public safety in the city’s downtown cores. The arrest occurred following a brief foot pursuit. As a result of multiple investigations, 40-year-old Randall NAULT from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Operation while impaired – alcohol and drugs • Personation with intent to avoid arrest, prosecution or obstruct justice (identity fraud) • Operation while prohibited under the criminal code (three counts) • Owner operate a motor vehicle without insurance • Dangerous operation (two counts) • Flight from peace officer (two counts) • Failure to comply with release order (five counts) • Aggravated assault of peace officer (Assault Level 3) • Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000 • Failure to stop after accident (two counts) • Theft under $5,000 • Resist peace officer The accused was remanded into custody after their first court appearance. Thank you to members of the public for their assistance with identifying the accused following a Thunder Bay Police Service public appeal for information.
The Thunder Bay Police Service is investigating a sudden death following a collision involving a train and a pedestrian. The incident occurred on the evening of April 25, 2026, near Fort William Road. Officers with the Primary Response Unit responded to the scene where a deceased individual was located. The Forensic Identification Unit and Traffic Unit are involved in the investigation. No other information is available at this time. Updates will be provided as appropriate.
The Thunder Bay Police Service is reminding residents to take steps to protect their property when leaving a vehicle unattended. Avoid leaving any unnecessary items in plain view. Thieves often look for quick opportunities, and visible valuables can make your vehicle a target. Items commonly stolen include: • Purses • Wallets • Jewelry • Keys • Electronics and other valuables It only takes a moment of distraction, such as leaving your vehicle unlocked while pumping gas, for someone to steal your wallet or other belongings. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and: • Lock all parcels and shopping bags in the trunk of your vehicle • Never hide a spare key inside your vehicle or outside your residence • Avoid leaving personal identification or valuables in your vehicle • Remove technology and other removable accessories from view when your vehicle is unattended Taking simple precautions can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim of theft.
TB26012173 A Thunder Bay Police Service Intelligence Unit investigation has led to charges. On April 2, 2026, a home on Algoma Street South was searched with the assistance of the Emergency Task Unit. During the search officers seized over 260 grams of suspected cocaine, 80 suspected Oxycodone-Percocet tablets, 329 suspected Nabilone capsules, over $30,000 cash and other items associated with drug trafficking. A suspect was also located and arrested. The total street value of the drugs seized is an estimated $45,000. As a result of the investigation, 40-year-old Cody VON BARGEN from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000 • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – cocaine • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – opioid • Possession of a Schedule 2 substance for the purpose of trafficking VON BARGEN has also been charged with aggravated assault as a result of an outstanding warrant. The accused was remanded into custody after their first court appearance with a future court date.
A Thunder Bay Police Service Intelligence Unit investigation with the assistance of the Ontario Provincial Police Organized Crime Enforcement Bureau has led to charges. On April 16th, 2026, two homes and two vehicles were searched on Anten Street and John Street. During the searches officers seized approximately 90 grams of suspected cocaine, a small amount of suspected fentanyl and more than $40,000 in Canadian cash. The street value of the drugs seized is estimated at $12,000. During the searches four suspects were located and arrested. As a result of the investigation, 31-year-old Emmanuel OWUSU from Toronto is facing the following charges: • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – cocaine • Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime over $5,000 The accused was released from custody with a future court date. Glenn BERNST a 61-year-old from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – cocaine • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – other drugs • Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime under $5,000 • Failure to comply with undertaking The accused was remanded into custody after their first court appearance with a future court date. A 31-year-old from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – cocaine • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – other drugs • Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime under $5,000 A 44-year-old from Thunder Bay is also facing the following charges: • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – cocaine • Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime under $5,000 The unnamed accused’s charges have not been read in court as they have been released under an undertaking with a future court date.
A Thunder Bay Police Service investigation called Project Eclipse has led to the seizure of over $39,000 in stolen items and 256 charges. The Thunder Bay Police Service Break, Enter, and Armed Robbery (BEAR) Unit led the investigation. The successful completion of this lengthy investigation was made possible through funding provided by the Ontario Government, Ministry of the Solicitor General in which the Criminal Intelligence Service Ontario supported this investigation. The investigation began in September 2025, running through February 2026. The project investigated thefts and robberies from numerous businesses in Thunder Bay. As a result of the investigation, the following charges have been laid: Edward HOGAN, 45, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 - shoplifting (three counts) • Fail to comply with probation order (six counts) • Trafficking in property obtained by crime • Fraud under $5,000 Aren POULIN, 31, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 - shoplifting • Fail to comply with probation order Christine PAULSON, 27, of Thunder Bay has been charged with theft under $5,000. Cody ALEXSON, 32, from Thunder Bay has been charged with theft under $5,000. Bradley Aho, 43, from Thunder Bay, is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 - shoplifting • Fail to comply with probation order Shaun TAYLOR, 42, from St Catharines is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 - shoplifting (three counts) Christian NEEKAN, 32, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 (two counts) Brandon THIBAULT, 31, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting (two counts) Mervyn MEEKIS, 30, from Thunder Bay has been charged with theft under $5,000 - shoplifting. Cory TOAL, 48, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000 (three counts) • Trafficking in property obtained by crime Jeffrey LEWIS, 47, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Trafficking in property obtained by crime • Possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000 (two counts) Jordan FISHER, 34, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Breach of recognizance • Failure to comply with release order • Failure to comply with undertaking • Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting Leela JOURDAIN, 40, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting (three counts) • Fail to comply with probation order (three counts) Sonny PATAYASH, 32, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 - shoplifting (three counts) Maggie WABASSE, 33, of Thunder Bay has been charged with theft under $5,000 - shoplifting. Richard PARKER, 31, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 - shoplifting (nine counts) • Fail to comply with probation order (nine counts) Adam BABOOLAL, 42, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 - shoplifting (five counts) • Trafficking in property obtained by crime • Fraud under $5,000 Carolyn COASTER, 33, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting (two counts) Drew MITCHELL, 31, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting • Assault with a weapon • Fail to comply with a probation order Harlan NANOKEESIC, 33, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting • Fail to comply with probation order Frances WABASSE, 33, of Thunder Bay has been charged with theft under $5,000 – shoplifting. Leo MANNING, 30, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting (three counts) • Fail to comply with probation order (four counts) Ralph ACKABEE, 42, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 - shoplifting • Obstruct peace officer Geraldine INEESE, 39, of Thunder Bay has been charged with theft under $5,000. Gary MATHEWS, 42, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 - shoplifting • Obstruct peace officer • Fail to comply with probation order Lester BOUCHARD, 49, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting (two charges) • Assault Kelsie COLLINS, 38, from Thunder Bay has been charged with theft under $5,000 – shoplifting. Justin ESQUEGA, 32, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting (two counts) • Possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000 • Assault a peace officer • Resist a peace officer • Fail to comply with probation order (two counts) Robert CAUL, 42, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting • Fail to comply with probation order Samantha FOX, 34, of Thunder Bay has been charged with theft under $5,000 – shoplifting. Bonnie THOMAS, 34, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting (three counts) • Possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000 • Fail to comply with probation order (three counts) Marly KAKEKAYASH, 35, of Thunder Bay has been charged with theft under $5,000 - shoplifting. Colton CORMIER, 31, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Assault • Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting • Obstruct peace officer • Fail to comply with probation order(nine counts) Jason ANDERSON, 37, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 • Fail to comply with probation order Jose MENDOZA CHICAS, 46, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting (three counts) Ryland BRISKA, 35, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 (four counts) Fawn TOSET, 43, of Thunder Bay has been charged with theft under $5,000. Rachel ANDERSON, 50, of Thunder Bay and Samantha MUNROE, 33, of Thunder Bay have been charged with theft under $5,000. Jordin FLYNN, 40, of Thunder Bay has been charged with theft under $5,000 – shoplifting. Peter-James ARNOLD, 40, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting (six counts) • Trafficking in property obtained by crime (four counts) • Fraud under $5,000 (three counts) Kendra WAINWRIGHT, 33, from Thunder Bay has been charged with theft under $5,000. Jason MORGAN, 50, of Thunder Bay has been charged with theft under $5,000. Jonah THOMAS, 33, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 - shoplifting (two counts) • Fail to comply with probation order (four counts) • Fail to comply with undertaking Corey ESSLEMONT, 39, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting (three counts) • Fail to comply with undertaking (three counts) • Fail to comply with probation order (three counts) • Trafficking in property obtained by crime (two counts) • Fraud under $5,000 Jeffrey PERREAULT, 53, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 • Uttering threats – cause death or bodily harm • Fail to comply with probation order Travis LOZER, 32, from Thunder Bay has been charged with Fraud under $5000. Keenan MATTINAS, 27, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Aggravated assault • Possession of weapon for dangerous purpose • Carrying concealed weapon • Disobeying order of court • Fail to comply with release order Dalton DEAN, 24, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 • Fail to comply with probation order John CLEMENZA, 59, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 • Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime under $5,000 Dakota SAGUTCH, 32, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Break, enter a place – commit indictable offence (four counts) • Disguise with intent (three counts) • Fail to comply with probation order (four counts) Megan TOWEDO, 36, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Break, enter a place – commit indictable offence (four counts) • Disguise with intent (four counts) Simon ANGECONEB, 30, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Robbery with violence • Fail to comply with probation order Anthony FRIZZELL, 65, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Robbery with violence • Disguise with intent (two counts) • Fail to comply with probation order (two counts) • Robbery Steven GERMAIN, 34, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 (two counts) • Fail to comply with probation order (two counts) • Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000 Christopher HILL, 37, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting (two counts) • Fail to comply with probation order (four counts) Quinn CHEECHOO, 31, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting • Fail to comply with probation order Brandon STUCKLESS, 33, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 • Dangerous operation Mickey NEALE, 40, of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 • Fail to comply with probation order • Fail to comply with release order (two counts) Thomas STARESKI, 44, from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting (22 counts) • Trafficking in property obtained by crime • Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000 • Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime under $5,000
Latest Messages From the Chief
On average, our 911 Communications Operators handle over 4,200 calls per week. Every day, moments of crisis, uncertainty, and urgency often begin with a call for help. Behind each one is a highly trained 911 Communications Operator—calm, focused, and ready to support those in need. Although their work often happens behind the scenes, its impact is felt every day across our community. Last week, during National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week (April 12 – 18), and throughout the year, we recognize the dedication of these professionals whose work is foundational to public safety. At the same time, we continue to implement initiatives to proactively address complex public safety challenges, which can also reduce emergency calls and demands on our front-line officers. Last month, there were: · 4128 Calls for Service · 168 calls related to the Mental Health Act · 315 arrests · 51 assaults on police The Downtown Core Stabilization Initiative, led by our Community Outreach Unit, is focused on improving safety in both downtown business areas. It proactively addresses concerns such as open drug use, disorderly behaviour, vandalism, and aggressive conduct, and how these issues affect people’s sense of safety and the local economy. This initiative combines a visible police presence with care and compassion. Foot patrols include a social navigator and community inclusion supports to connect people with services for addiction, mental health, or housing needs whenever possible. When individuals decline support or continue behaviour that is not permitted, officers take consistent, lawful, and fair enforcement action. This work relies on strong partnerships, and I thank our community and social service partners for their ongoing commitment to long‑term solutions. We are also strengthening our Service by welcoming new officers to our front‑line teams. Last month, seven new constables were sworn in, and additional recruits will join us after completing police academy. These recruits help us meet day‑to‑day demands while building for the future of policing in our community. I extend my sincere thanks to our sworn and civilian members, community partners, and residents. Public safety is a shared responsibility, and together we continue working toward a safer, more supportive community for everyone.
Latest The Shift
Project Support: Downtown Core Stabilization Q. What is it? A. The pilot project began on April 20 and will continue for 60 days. It involves teams conducting visible foot patrols in North and South downtown cores to deter disorder, respond quickly to concerns, and increase public confidence. Each patrol team is paired with a Social Navigator and/or Community Integration Team (CIT) Coordinator, ensuring service engagement is the first point of contact. Individuals are offered referrals to addiction treatment, mental health services, housing supports, and other appropriate resources. Q. What sort of safety concerns led to this project? A. We’re responding to concerns we’ve heard consistently about unsafe behaviours, trespassing, vandalism, public intoxication. This is a proactive initiative aimed at improving safety in shared public spaces in downtown cores. Our goal is to help connect people with the assistance that best suits their needs. Q. How does this address the needs of people? A. Our focus and first contact is outreach. Our main goal is to connect people with the most appropriate social services to suit their needs. Criminal enforcement may be pursued if disruptive or illegal behaviours in shared public spaces in downtown cores persists. Q. Will this reduce police availability for other calls for service? A. The initiative is being operated by our Community Oriented Response and Engagement Unit and will not directly impact Primary Response Unit staffing or response time.
