Thunder Bay police say an investigation targeting drug trafficking in the downtown north core has led to six arrests, 37 charges and the seizure of about $300,000 worth of suspected illicit drugs.
Project Rave, as the intelligence-led investigation was called, culminated on July 16, 2026 with five search warrants executed across the city. Officers from the Thunder Bay Police Service, including the Intelligence Unit and Emergency Task Unit, were assisted by the Ontario Provincial Police Organized Crime Enforcement Bureau and the Nishnawbe Aski Police Service.
Seized were approximately 2.76 kilograms of suspected cocaine, 1,167 suspected Percocet tablets and 383 grams of suspected crystal methamphetamine, along with more than $5,000 in cash, two vehicles, brass knuckles, a switchblade, five cell phones and four digital scales.
Six Thunder Bay residents now face charges under the Criminal Code and the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. David Cairns, 41, and Trentin Holmquist, 22, were remanded into custody, while Erica Neverly, 40, Melanie Primeau, 29, Celina Sutherland, 39, and Jesse Darosa, 35, were released pending future court dates.
Acting Inspector Shawn Harrison said police had also linked one suspect to about $150,000 seized by the RCMP in Western Canada, describing the group as “very prolific.”
The investigation was supported by funding from the Ontario Ministry of the Solicitor General through the Criminal Intelligence Service Ontario.
Thunder Bay has faced elevated crime rates and visible drug activity in its downtown core, prompting complementary initiatives such as Project Support to address public safety concerns. Police say Project Rave remains an ongoing investigation.
