With increases in homicides, a Thunder Bay police record check is becoming an invaluable piece of due diligence for employers in the region.

A police record check helps organizations increase workplace safety by showing a candidate’s convictions, arrest warrants, outstanding charges, and other criminal records. That being said, just because you have a criminal record doesn’t necessarily mean you’re disqualified from a job.

Many of these homicides are related to increases in drug trafficking and gang violence, which spill over into other forms of crime. Employers in the area are likely looking for any red flags that show a candidate may be involved with these issues.

Here’s what job seekers need to know.

Crime in Thunder Bay

According to Statistics Canada, there were 788 homicides in Canada in 2021, an increase of 29 compared to 2020. This was the third consecutive year with an increase in homicides since 2019.

Ontario had the highest increase in homicides among provinces with 37 for a total of 277, and Thunder Bay had the second highest homicide rate among census metropolitan areas with 5.63 per 100,000 people. Regina was first with 5.67.

As of November, there were a record 13 homicides in Thunder Bay during 2022, two more than the previous record of 11 set in 2014.

Police chief Dan Taddeo believes all 13 homicides were tied to substance abuse or addiction issues. Indeed, Taddeo says illicit drug trade and gang activity are driving Thunder Bay’s record homicide numbers.

Crime in Southern Ontario

However, that’s not to say this is just a Thunder Bay problem, as it is related to crime across Southern Ontario.

As part of investigations into these 13 homicides, six arrests have been made in connection with people from the Greater Toronto Area who are trafficking drugs to Thunder Bay. Additionally, police have made 90 warrants in 2022 as part of investigations into drug trafficking from the GTA into Thunder Bay, leading to 122 arrests.

Stephen Metelsky, who teaches criminal psychology at Mohawk College and lectures on organized crime at Queen’s University, also points to Thunder Bay’s proximity to the US-Canada border as another factor behind these trends.

The causes behind drug usage and trafficking are complex. Solutions may involve addressing social support, antiviolence training, community support, and job opportunities.

Obtaining a Thunder Bay Police Record Check

Are you a job seeker in Thunder Bay looking to obtain a police record check for a job? We can get you the information you need in 15 minutes or less.

Download our new app today or visit our website to learn more!