THUNDER BAY — The City of Thunder Bay's Crime Prevention Council is warning members of the community about gangs and individuals taking over homes or apartments to conduct illegal activity.
The council issued a statement on the problem Wednesday, saying it was "raising the alarm."
It said that some cases involve gangs that prey on people with addictions or physical, mental or developmental vulnerabilities.
They will use "violence and/or threats to exert and maintain control over the victim and their home. Perpetrators may use intimidation tactics to silence victims, which might include providing drugs...or warning the homeowner or tenant they will be in trouble with police for allowing drugs into their home," the statement said.
Lee-Ann Chevrette, coordinator of the Crime Prevention Council, said individuals who feel unsafe physically, financially or psychologically in their own home because of the presence of people who won't leave need to recognize they are not to blame and to get help.
The council has produced informational materials including a checklist and video that are available online.
Chevrette said the checklist asks residents simple "yes" or "no" questions regarding how their guest makes them feel.
"If the tenant or homeowner answers 'yes' to any of the questions, they might be experiencing a home takeover and need to call someone for assistance–either someone they trust, their support worker, landlord, or police. If they feel they are in immediate danger, they need to call 911," Chevrette said.
She said neighbours can also do their part by contacting police if they notice unusual activity such as increased traffic to a home or unfamiliar people in the residence.
The statement provided no information about how extensive the council or Thunder Bay Police believe the problem might be in the community.
