BEAR Unit arrests repeat theft suspect following latest incident on Main Street

THUNDER BAY – LOCAL CRIME UPDATE: A 33-year-old Thunder Bay woman is facing 30 charges of theft under $5,000 following a months-long series of shoplifting incidents targeting the same business in the city’s downtown area.

On the afternoon of Monday, July 7, Thunder Bay Police Service officers responded to a report of a theft in progress at a retail location in the 300 block of Main Street. Staff at the business informed police that the female suspect had repeatedly targeted their store, with thefts dating back to January 2025.

Suspect Arrested Nearby by BEAR Unit

Members of the Break and Enter and Robbery (BEAR) Unit quickly located an individual matching the suspect’s description in the area. The woman was arrested without incident and taken into custody for questioning.

Following the arrest, investigators confirmed the suspect’s alleged involvement in a series of 29 previous thefts from the same business, bringing the total number of charges to 30 counts of Theft Under $5,000.

Accused Identified

• Carolyn COASTER, 33, of Thunder Bay, is now facing:

  • Theft Under $5,000 x30

The accused made a court appearance on Tuesday, where her charges were formally read. Additional conditions or future court dates have not yet been released.

Retail Theft on the Rise

This case highlights growing concerns among local businesses about repeat thefts and retail losses, especially in high-traffic commercial areas.

Thunder Bay Police continue to work with business owners and loss prevention teams to deter repeat offenders and improve public safety.

Anyone witnessing suspicious activity or theft in progress is encouraged to contact Thunder Bay Police or Crime Stoppers anonymously.