Full Breakdown
Thunder Bay Police Wrap Up Project Support Pilot
9/9/2026, 2:45:10 PM
Core Event
The Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) concluded its Project Support pilot, which began on April 20 and ran through early September. The initiative paired officers with social-navigation staff to patrol the city’s north and south downtown cores, aiming to address drug use, disorderly conduct and other safety concerns while linking individuals to health and social services rather than pursuing criminal charges.
Data & Statistics
During the pilot, TBPS recorded more than 9,100 engagements with businesses and the public. The program generated 343 service referrals, of which 89 were accepted. Law-enforcement actions resulted in 78 arrests and 74 provincial-offence notices. In mid-July, patrols were expanded to the Memorial Avenue and Dawson Road areas in response to requests for a stronger police presence around the Thunder Centre.
Official Statements & Responses
Operational support inspector Insp. Jason Rybak said the balanced approach of visible policing combined with voluntary referrals allowed the force to meet immediate safety needs while supporting longer-term stability. He noted that, as the summer progressed, fewer individuals accepted referrals, prompting a shift toward a more enforcement-focused posture. Staff Sgt. Kevin Bradley, who oversaw the emergency tactical unit’s deployment, reported that businesses observed fewer thefts and disruptive incidents, along with improved employee morale, and that officers recovered stolen property during the operation.
Community Context & Next Steps
Thunder Bay continues to face the province’s highest opioid-related death rate, more than five times the Ontario average in 2025, underscoring the need for coordinated health and safety strategies. The City of Thunder Bay is developing a Neighbourhood Navigator Program—a two-person team model that will operate in the Waterfront and Fort William Business Improvement Areas. The program will focus on relationship-building, connecting residents and visitors with community resources, and gathering insight on local concerns. A launch date has not yet been announced, as city spokesperson Michelle Williams indicated the implementation details are still being finalized.
Verbatim Quotes
- “There were several businesses that reported [fewer] thefts, fewer disruptive incidents and improved employee morale during the deployment,” — Staff Sgt. Kevin Bradley
- “We are currently working through the implementation pieces, including recruitment, operating spaces and the processes that will support the teams once they are in the community,” — Michelle Williams, wrote city spokesperson
