The Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) continues to respond to a growing number of calls for service.
As they say, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Supporting people to avoid repeat interactions with law enforcement is one of many ways to reduce crime. Strong community partnerships are key to success.
| April 2023 | April 2024 | |
| Total Calls | 4,301 | 4,451 |
| Assault | 85 | 122 |
| Theft | 85 | 123 |
| Domestic Dispute | 197 | 231 |
I am grateful to Nokiiwin Tribal Council for working with us to provide the Pre-charge Diversion Program. Often, an officer finds that a person accepts responsibility for their part in a crime and there is a good chance for restorative justice. In those cases, the person who committed a crime can be referred to the Pre-charge Diversion Liaison at Nokiiwin. Restorative justice focuses on repairing the harm caused by crime, while holding offenders responsible for their actions. The offender must participate in an accountability program that supports them to avoid re-offending. This can lead to better outcomes for victims and offenders and reduce the number of cases that go to trial*.
Another example of how collaboration can address the needs of our community is the Superior North Specialized Treatment and Alternative Responders (STAR) program. Police are often the default response to a mental health crisis due to being available 24/7 and the public belief that police are needed to de-escalate a person in crisis. In April, TBPS officers responded to 176 calls related to mental health. The STAR program (launching later this year) pairs community paramedicine and mental health crisis workers who can provide immediate mental health and addictions support. People get the help they need rather than go to the emergency department or jail, which supports police to respond to more appropriate calls, keeping our community safe.
Community safety is a shared responsibility: we all benefit by working together. I appreciate the efforts of the many people, organizations and businesses who contribute. This is what it means to be part of a caring community.
I became a member of this community just over a year ago. What stands out above all else is the dedication of TBPS Members to keeping our community safe. I hear the same from others. Since the day I began this role, community leaders and members have made a point of connecting to share their support of and gratitude for our Service. The vast majority of the comments I hear are highly positive.
I know some people feel otherwise. It’s important to also hear from them. Listening to diverse perspectives, expertise and lived-experiences is how we learn, shape our priorities, and build trust. That’s why, this month during Police Week, I spent time talking to people in different coffee shops.
As I move into my second year of service, I remain dedicated to ongoing engagement with community members.