The Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) is pleased to share features and information about the people, programs and services that keep our community safe.
July 17, 2024
Bike Patrols
During the summer months, Officers with the Community Oriented Response and Engagement (CORE) Unit can be found riding specialized e-bikes around town. The bikes give officers a different perspective on patrol and allow them to visit trails and areas not easily reached by a cruiser. They’re very popular in the community, and Officers enjoy positive interactions with people in neighbourhoods across the city.
What is the Special Investigations Unit (SIU)?
Every so often, you may hear news about an SIU investigation that involves TBPS. The SIU, or Special Investigations Unit, invokes their mandate to look into incidents to see if criminal conduct might have occurred. The SIU automatically investigates incidents that involve police where there has been a death, serious injury or allegations of sexual assault, or if a person has been shot at.
The SIU is not “police investigating police”. It is a civilian oversight agency with no influence from the Ministry of the Attorney General. The SIU covers incidents across Ontario, which includes around 21,600 officers from various services. The SIU has the authority to investigate and, if necessary, bring criminal charges against officers or certain other officials involved in an incident. Any charges are brought before the court as they would be for anyone. When the SIU doesn't find sufficient evidence for criminal charges, no charges are laid.
Police and Crown Attorneys
In the justice system, police investigate crimes and build the case, while Crown Attorneys use this evidence in court to pursue justice on behalf of the public. Although their roles are different, police and Crown Attorneys depend on each other to keep our communities safe and uphold the rule of law. Local Crown Attorneys and TBPS Officers work together to pursue the best course of justice. Lately, Crown Attorneys have joined TBPS Officers for Briefings and ride-alongs. The strong working relationship builds understanding of investigative and trial processes and supports earlier justice solutions. The Crown Attorney works with our Major Crimes Unit from the onset of major crime investigations.
Gratitude
We are grateful to receive compliments, like this one from the family member of a person who was reported missing:
“Miigwech to the Thunder Bay Police for their quick and efficient efforts on locating our [family member]. She is safe and getting rest. TBPS work does not go unnoticed and we full-heartedly thank you for taking our request for service seriously and stepping into action quickly and updating us along the way.”
Answering the call: Forensic Identification Unit
Officers in our Forensic Identification Unit undergo specific training and are subject matter experts. Forensic evidence is crucial in most serious investigations, making Forensic Identification officers critical members of the Investigative Services Branch. These officers, often working as part of the major crimes team, are on call 24 hours a day. They examine and document crime scenes to help solve crimes and preserve evidence for court proceedings. The sophisticated tools and techniques these officers use are necessary in modern policing.
Interested in Answering the Call? We’re seeking qualified candidates who want a rewarding career in law enforcement. Learn more at www.thunderbaypolice.ca/careers