Former Thunder Bay police lawyer second charged in misconduct investigation

The Ontario Provincial Police Criminal Investigation Branch has laid criminal charges against a member of the Thunder Bay Police Service. (File)

A former lawyer for Thunder Bay Police Service is facing some legal trouble of her own after charges were laid against her amid an ongoing misconduct investigation.

Holly Walbourne, 37, was charged Tuesday with breach of trust by a public officer, obstructing a public or peace officer and three counts of obstructing justice.

She is the second person from Thunder Bay police charged in connection with an Ontario Provincial Police investigation into misconduct allegations.

Sgt. Mike Dimini was chargedi n December with breach of trust by a police officer and obstructing justice, as well as two counts of assault.

The investigation started in late 2021 when the Ministry of the Attorney General asked OPP to look into the complaints.

"That review led to an investigation by the OPP criminal investigation branch (CIB)," OPP said in a news release.

"The investigation has been ongoing and has led to further charges against a former member of the TBPS."

Thunder Bay police confirmed Walbourne resigned a year ago, but did help with the transition of the new police chief Darcy Fleury, who was sworn in May 2023.

"Since then, there has been a retainer arrangement for her services, with the work largely consisting of transitional support following the appointment of chief Fleury," TBPS said in a joint statement with the police services board.

However, Walbourne is no longer providing any services to them in any capacity.

"Since the OPP launched its investigation in 2022, members of the Thunder Bay Police Service have continued day in and day out serving our community," TBPS said

"The Thunder Bay Police Service Board, through the guidance of administrator Malcolm Mercer and with the appointment of Chief Fleury, has been focused on building trust with the community as well as reviewing governance practices in ensuring the highest of standards are in place."

None of the allegations has been proven in court.

Walbourne was released from custody and is scheduled to appear in court May 10.

She is currently listed as a self-employed labour and employment lawyer online.

The investigation into the matter is continuing, OPP said.