THUNDER BAY – NEWS – A Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) officer has been criminally charged in connection with a two-vehicle collision that occurred while on duty in early 2024.
On February 29, 2024, a TBPS cruiser was involved in a collision within the city limits of Thunder Bay. The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) were later asked to investigate the incident following an internal request from TBPS.
As a result of that investigation, Constable Peter Haase, 37, of Thunder Bay, was formally charged by the OPP on Monday, April 28, 2025, with:
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Dangerous operation, under section 320.13(1) of the Criminal Code.
Haase is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Thunder Bay on May 28, 2025.
SIU Initially Involved but Terminates Investigation
The Special Investigations Unit (SIU), Ontario’s civilian oversight agency for police-involved incidents, initially opened a file into the matter. However, in June 2024, the SIU issued a news release stating it had reviewed medical records and other preliminary evidence and determined that there was insufficient evidence of serious injury, which is required for the SIU to maintain jurisdiction.
As a result, the SIU terminated its investigation, leaving the OPP to proceed with the case.
Officer Suspended with Pay Pending Court Proceedings
Thunder Bay Police Service confirm that Constable Haase has been suspended with pay, as per the regulations under the Police Services Act.
TBPS did not provide further details on internal measures or potential employment outcomes, citing the ongoing nature of the legal proceedings.
Previous Disciplinary History on Record
Constable Haase has previously faced disciplinary action within the TBPS.
In 2023, during a Police Services Act hearing, he pleaded guilty to three counts of misconduct:
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Discreditable conduct
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Insubordination
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Unlawful or unnecessary exercise of authority
These charges stemmed from a January 2022 encounter involving an Indigenous man.
Haase was recorded by his partner’s body-worn camera using profanity, grabbing the man’s arm, and pushing him against the wall of a bus shelter.
The footage led to internal disciplinary proceedings, during which Haase received a temporary demotion and was ordered to complete training focused on Indigenous issues.
Allegations Not Proven in Court
As with all criminal matters, the allegations against Constable Haase have not been proven in court, and he is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The case will draw public interest, particularly amid broader discussions about police accountability, officer conduct, and the need for community trust in local law enforcement.
